Dr. Narine Dat Sookram

Dr. Narine Dat Sookram Creating a safe space to share knowledge & resources where everyone can benefit.

09/10/2026

“When the work feels heavy, remember why you started: to create hope where there is hurt, opportunity where there are barriers, and strength where someone feels they have none left. Your work matters—even on the days you don’t feel it. Keep showing up. Keep believing. Keep making a difference.”

— Dr. Narine Dat Sookram

I ONCE WALKED THROUGH THE DOORS OF KCI AS A TEENAGER. TODAY, I AM ASKING FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE THE NEXT GENERATIO...
09/09/2026

I ONCE WALKED THROUGH THE DOORS OF KCI AS A TEENAGER. TODAY, I AM ASKING FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE THE NEXT GENERATION.

My journey has come full circle.

When I came to Kitchener as a teenager, I attended Kitchener Collegiate Institute (KCI). As a young person building a future in Canada, I learned firsthand how much a school can matter. Supportive educators, opportunity, belonging, and encouragement can change the trajectory of a young person's life.

That experience stayed with me.

Over the years, I pursued a lifelong journey of education and service, earning degrees and professional qualifications in social work, education, human services, counselling, leadership, and community practice—including a Doctor of Social Work.

My career has taken me into some of the most important spaces affecting children, youth and families: employment and career development, addiction treatment, youth homelessness, mental health, counselling, family services, and community programs.

Today, I serve as a Clinical Manager with Yorktown Family Services, supporting children, parents, and families.

These experiences have taught me that student success is about more than grades.

A child who is struggling with mental health, housing instability, food insecurity, family challenges, exclusion, or a lack of belonging needs more than a report card. They need adults who listen. They need support. They need opportunity. They need to know that their future is still possible.

That is why I am seeking to serve as a Waterloo Region District School Board Trustee for Kitchener.

I want to champion student achievement, mental health and well-being, equity and inclusion, safe and welcoming schools, support for vulnerable students, meaningful parent engagement, career readiness, and accountable governance.

Every student should be able to say:

I BELONG HERE.
I MATTER.
I AM SUPPORTED.
I CAN SUCCEED.

My story began as a WRDSB student.

Now, I want to give back.

If you believe in an education system where every student has the opportunity to rise, thrive, and reach their full potential, I invite you to join me on this journey.

Let’s cross the finish line together.
drnarinedatsookram.com

drnarinedatsookram.comWhat do I bring to the table as a WRDSB Trustee? I bring a perspective that connects education, me...
09/05/2026

drnarinedatsookram.com
What do I bring to the table as a WRDSB Trustee? I bring a perspective that connects education, mental health, equity, inclusion, and community. As a Doctor of Social Work, my doctoral research on Best Practices for Inclusive Hiring reflects my commitment to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for everyone. My professional work in mental health, counselling, youth services, family support, and community engagement has given me firsthand insight into the challenges many children and families face. I understand that student success is about more than grades—it is about belonging, well-being, support, opportunity, and hope. I am ready to bring my education, experience, and passion for service to the WRDSB table and advocate for every student to know: I belong here. I matter. I am supported. I can succeed.

What should voters look for in a WRDSB Trustee on October 26, 2026?Look for experience, education, compassion, accountab...
09/04/2026

What should voters look for in a WRDSB Trustee on October 26, 2026?

Look for experience, education, compassion, accountability, and a proven commitment to serving others.

I believe voters should choose a trustee who understands education not only from a governance perspective, but from the perspective of a student, educator, social worker, counsellor, parent and community advocate.

My journey began as a teenager at Kitchener Collegiate Institute, where I experienced firsthand how supportive teachers, opportunity, and a welcoming school community can change a young person's life. Today, as a Doctor of Social Work, educator, clinical manager, psychotherapist, youth advocate, researcher, author, and community leader, I bring decades of learning and service to this candidacy.
I want every student to know:

I belong here.
I matter.
I am supported.
I can succeed.

On October 26, look for a trustee who will listen to families, advocate for students, understand the challenges facing vulnerable youth, champion mental health and inclusion, ask difficult questions, and remain accountable to the community.

For me, this is about using my education, experience, and life journey to give back to the school system that helped shape who I am.

Dr. Narine Dat Sookram, DSW
WRDSB Trustee Candidate – Kitchener

09/01/2026

Stop Building What Keeps Breaking You

Strong schools. Strong students. Stronger communities. I’m Dr. Narine Dat Sookram, candidate for WRDSB Trustee, and I’m ...
09/01/2026

Strong schools. Strong students. Stronger communities. I’m Dr. Narine Dat Sookram, candidate for WRDSB Trustee, and I’m ready to listen, lead, and stand up for students, families, and educators. Together, let’s build a brighter future for every student. Learn more at drnarinedatsookram.com.

Two Years Later: Grateful for the Journey to “Dr.”August 31, 2026 marks exactly two years since I officially graduated w...
08/31/2026

Two Years Later: Grateful for the Journey to “Dr.”

August 31, 2026 marks exactly two years since I officially graduated with my Doctor of Social Work (DSW)—an earned doctorate and an academic achievement that remains one of the most meaningful milestones of my life.

On August 31, 2024, years of studying, researching, sacrificing, persevering, and believing culminated in the completion of the highest academic degree of my educational journey.

I remain especially grateful that I completed my doctoral studies with a perfect 4.0/4.0 GPA, just as I had previously accomplished in my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. For me, those numbers represent far more than grades. They remind me of the discipline, consistency, long nights, sacrifices, and determination that were required along the way.

There is also something deeply meaningful about now being officially known as Dr. Narine Dat Sookram. In Ontario, the use of the title “Doctor” while providing or offering health care is legally restricted. Ontario legislation specifically recognizes registered social workers who hold a qualifying earned doctorate in social work as being permitted to use the title, provided the applicable professional requirements are followed.

I therefore carry the title “Dr.” not simply as a symbol of academic achievement, but with tremendous gratitude and responsibility. It reminds me that education should never be solely about what we achieve for ourselves—it should strengthen our ability to serve, advocate, educate, mentor, and create opportunities for others.

Two years later, I remain just as grateful.

The degree is completed. The title is earned. But the responsibility to use that education in service to others continues every day.

— Dr. Narine Dat Sookram, DSW

Every Student. Every Community. Every Voice.drnarinedatsookram.com As I continue my campaign for WRDSB Trustee, I believ...
08/30/2026

Every Student. Every Community. Every Voice.
drnarinedatsookram.com

As I continue my campaign for WRDSB Trustee, I believe we must ensure that students and families from farming and rural communities are heard and supported.

Their experiences can be different—from transportation and access to programs to connectivity, family responsibilities, and the realities of agricultural life. Good leadership means listening directly to these families and ensuring their perspectives are considered in decisions affecting public education.

I also believe our schools should continue connecting students with opportunities in agriculture, agri-food, skilled trades, technology, and environmental stewardship.

Whether a student comes from an urban neighbourhood or a farming community, every student deserves the opportunity to succeed.

— Dr. Narine Dat Sookram
Candidate for WRDSB Trustee

Address

Kitchener, ON
N2E4K9

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Dr. Narine Dat Sookram posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Dr. Narine Dat Sookram:

Shortcuts

Share

Category