From Community Volunteer to City Hall: The Lessons Behind 12 Years of Leadership in Winnipeg

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How does a volunteer become one of Winnipeg's most influential community leaders?

In this episode of Community Hour on U Multicultural Channel, host Florence Okwudili speaks with Waverley West Councillor Janice Lukes about public service, community building, women in leadership, mentorship, immigration, and the lessons learned from 12 years at City Hall.

From raising triplet boys and fundraising for local playgrounds to securing millions of dollars for community projects, Janice shares the experiences that shaped her leadership journey.

In this conversation:
0:00 "There have been 400 male city councillors and I think 32 women"
3:03 "Passion, passion. You have to have a passion about whatever you're doing"
4:03 Raising triplet boys changed the direction of her life
5:15 How a community volunteer secured $20 million in funding
5:32 "I'm going to go to the dark side" and run for office
6:25 "The power isn't in the individual. The power is in the people"
8:28 The $128 million project transforming one of Winnipeg's fastest-growing communities
11:22 "I couldn't fathom how hard it would be" — her message to newcomers
12:21 The leadership advice that future politicians need to hear
21:11 "Am I good enough?" The answer every woman needs to hear
Memorable quote:
"The power isn't in the individual. The power is in the people."
Watch until the end for powerful advice on overcoming self-doubt and stepping into leadership.