“I’ll listen, do the work, ask the tough questions, and make sure the voices and everyday realities of our community are heard in the Legislature.”

Shila Taheri is a labour leader, legal researcher, published author, and human rights advocate running to represent Burnaby Centre. Her work has been guided by a commitment to fairness, accountability, and ensuring that people have a meaningful voice in the decisions that affect their lives.

She believes effective representation requires careful attention to evidence, a willingness to ask difficult questions, and the courage to challenge decisions when people are not being heard. Her experience in labour relations, legal research, public service, and organizational governance has given her a detailed understanding of how laws and policies can shape people’s everyday lives.

Her education and professional experience in law have shaped her approach to advocacy and public service. Shila holds an LL.M. in International Business Law and an LL.B., and has pursued further Canadian studies in immigration and labour law. She is a published legal researcher and author whose work includes scholarly books and articles in areas such as international business law and arbitration.

Through her union work, Shila has represented workers in grievances, workplace disputes, and investigations, advocated for safer and more respectful workplaces, and helped people understand and exercise their rights. She also serves in several elected leadership roles within the BC General Employees’ Union (BCGEU), including First Vice-Chair of Local 803, Chair of the Component 8 Membership Committee, and Recording Secretary of Component 8. 

As a wife and mother of two boys, Shila also brings a personal perspective to the challenges facing families and communities. Her priorities include affordability and housing, strong and reliable public services, good jobs and respect for working people, safe communities, and protecting the environment for future generations.

Shila is running to represent the people of Burnaby Centre with the same approach she has brought to her advocacy: listening closely, doing the work, asking tough questions, and making sure the everyday realities of the community are heard in the Legislature.