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MEET TRISH MANDWEWO

Experienced leadership. Proven results.
A strong voice for Coquitlam

My Journey

I’m an award-winning governance professional, entrepreneur, author, and civic leader, known for bringing people together and getting things done.

For more than 15 years, Coquitlam has been home for me and my family—my husband, Alex, our daughter, Alexandra, and our beloved dog, Kei. Coquitlam isn’t just the city I serve; it’s the community where we’ve built our life and where I’m deeply invested in its future.

I’m currently completing my second term as a Coquitlam City Councillor, where I’ve helped shape decisions around budgets, infrastructure, development, parks, and long-term planning.

A Record of Service

With a strong background in governance and community service, I have spent over 15 years in public service, including my role as a City Councillor. My approach is rooted in collaboration and transparency, and I have successfully led initiatives that prioritize infrastructure, housing, and public safety.

 

My commitment is to serve Coquitlam with integrity and to create opportunities for all residents.

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About Me.

I was elected President of the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) by local government colleagues from communities across British Columbia—not once, but twice. As a two-term President, I represented communities across the province and built a proven record as a strong advocate for local governments. I worked directly with provincial and federal leaders on issues affecting our communities, pushing for solutions when needed and partnering when collaboration could deliver results. This experience gave me a front-row understanding of how to navigate government, build relationships across jurisdictions, and ensure local priorities are heard at the tables where critical decisions are made. I know when to challenge, when to collaborate, and always keep community interests at the centre. Through it all, I’ve helped put Coquitlam on the map provincially and federally, ensuring our city’s priorities are heard where it matters.

I’ve served on more than 25 boards across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, bringing deep expertise in governance and strategy. My work has earned recognition including BC Business Woman of the Year, Top 50 Women Over 50, the King Charles III Coronation Medal, and a place among Canada’s 100 Accomplished Black Women.

With an early career in microbiology and embryology, I bring a unique combination of perspectives as a scientist, business owner, governance expert, and community builder. At the heart of my approach is a simple belief: strong governance, effective leadership, and service to community are inseparable.

I know Coquitlam. I understand government. And I have the relationships, experience, and determination to lead our city into its next chapter.

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Leadership Through Service

Service has always extended beyond my elected role. I’ve consistently shared my time, expertise, and leadership through board service, helping organizations strengthen governance, navigate change, and create meaningful impact in our community.

AWARDS & RECOGNITION 
  • Pam McConnell Award for Gender Equality in International Development – FCM (2025) 

  • King Charles III Coronation Award for Leadership (2025) 

  • Top 50 Women over 50 – The CEO Magazine Global (2025) 

  • BC Business Woman of the Year (2025) 

  • Top 100 Accomplished Black Women in Canada (2024) 

  • BBABC Business Excellence Award – Best Woman-Owned Business (2024) 

  • Excellence in Entrepreneurship – African Canadian Business Chamber (2023) 

  • Top 25 Canadian Immigrant – RBC (2017) 

Council Advisory Boards & Committees 
  • Chair, Community Safety Advisory Committee (Current) 

  • Chair, Sports and Recreation Advisory Committee (Current) 

  • Coquitlam Public Library Board, Council Representative (Current) 

  • Committee Member – Metro Vancouver Indigenous Relations  

  • Chair - Culture Services Advisory Committee 

  • Chair - Economic Development Advisory Committee 

  • Chair - Coquitlam Multiculturalism Committee 

  • Chair of the Universal Access-Ability Advisory Committee 

  • Chair - Parcel Tax Review Panel 

  • Board Member – Coquitlam Rivershed Society 

  • Council representative - Tri-Cities Homelessness & Housing Task Group 

  • Committee member - Metro Vancouver Electoral Area A 

  •  School District 43 Child Care Task Force 

Other Boards
  • Trustee, Municipal Pension Board of Trustees (Current) 

  • Board Member, SFU Beedie School of Business (Current) 

  • Chair, Women’s Enterprise Centre BC (Current) 

  • Board Member, FCM and Chair of Social & Economic Development Committee 

  • Board Member – Lower Mainland Local Government Association (LMLGA) 

  • Board Member - Tri-cities Chamber of Commerce & Chair of Economic Summit 

  • Board Member - The Coquitlam Foundation  

  • Founding Board Member - Women’s Collaborative Hub Society  

  • Council Representative on the Tri-Cities Early Childhood Development Committee   

  • President - Coquitlam Tennis Club  

  • Director - Tennis BC Ladies Tennis Inter Club League  

  • Competition Chair - 2016 BC Senior Games  

  • Board Member - Tri-city Transition Society 

MY VISION FOR COQUITLAM

Building a Better Coquitlam

My mission is to foster an environment where every resident thrives. I believe in responsible growth that prioritizes community needs, ensuring that our infrastructure keeps pace with our development. Together, we can create a livable, safe, and vibrant city that embraces the future while honoring our past. I am here to listen, to lead, and to build a better Coquitlam for generations to come.

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