Why Joanna?
I am a passionate city councillor, mom, activist, volunteer, community organizer and life long Saint Johner. I am running for MLA for Lancaster West because I want to ensure all citizens live in a community that not only provides services; but creates a space for all to access opportunities to thrive here.
Here is a rundown of my professional and community experience.
City of Saint John - Ward 1 West Saint John City Councillor
Elected in 2021, Joanna Killen is a dedicated public servant committed to enhancing her community's well-being as a member of City Council. With a background in community organizing and advocacy, Joanna brings valuable experience in consensus-building and strategic planning to her role.
As a City Council member, Joanna prioritizes transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in local governance. She works collaboratively with fellow council members, city officials, and community stakeholders to address pressing issues such as housing, infrastructure improvement, and economic sustainability.
Joanna is a strong advocate for affordable housing, equitable access to services, and the support of all Saint Johners in need. Her efforts aim to create a more vibrant and equitable city for all residents.
With a Bachelor's degree in Political Science, History and English, Joanna is well-equipped to analyze public policies and advocate for effective solutions. She remains actively engaged in civic and philanthropic endeavors, encouraging civic participation and empowering individuals to shape the future of their city.
Outside of her council duties, Joanna enjoys outdoor activities, volunteering with local charities, and spending time with her loved ones.
Committed to building a brighter future for her city, Joanna Killen remains dedicated to ensuring that it remains a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving community for all its residents.
Slocum & Ferris - Former Owner/Operator
Joanna embarked on a transformative journey when she and her former business partner acquired Slocum & Ferris, an esteemed eatery and café situated within the historic City Market of Saint John, New Brunswick in the height of the pandemic in 2020. Established in 1895, this iconic establishment holds a special place in Joanna's heart, as it was in the Saint John City Market, where she began her career. Taking the reins of this 126-year-old business was not just a professional endeavor; it was a personal homage to the city's rich history and culinary heritage. With a background in restaurant ownership and a passion for crafting exceptional dining experiences, Joanna embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and dedication eventually passing the reigns onto the next steward of the business in 2023.
Momentum Canada - FormerOwner/Operator
In January 2017, Joanna co-founded Momentum Canada, a catalyst for growth and innovation within Atlantic Canada's business landscape. With a mission to empower local enterprises, Joanna and her team worked tirelessly to help businesses validate their ideas, nurture sales pipelines, and drive revenue growth. Through strategic partnerships with key organizations like the Business Immigrant Program and the New Brunswick Innovation Foundation, Momentum Canada facilitated workshops, training sessions, and community events aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and economic prosperity. Joanna's commitment to supporting aspiring business leaders extended beyond traditional avenues, as she spearheaded initiatives such as Entrepreneur Peer Support groups and inclusive events like GirlBoss and Startup Weekend.
Enterprise Saint John (Currently Envision Saint John)
During her tenure at Enterprise Saint John from 2014 to 2017, Joanna played a pivotal role in nurturing the city's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Serving as a bridge between aspiring entrepreneurs and the resources they needed to succeed, Joanna provided personalized business counseling and facilitated connections within the local business community. Her efforts included organizing tailored workshops, coaching startup founders, and sharing insights on economic development and community building at conferences. Through her dedication and guidance, Joanna assisted over 200 local business owners in realizing their dreams of entrepreneurship and contributing to the vibrancy of Saint John's economy.
Community Experience
St. FX / Coady Institute- Student of the Gros Morne Institute for Sustainable Tourism ACTivate Program - 2024
Organizer of Love is Louder Fest - LGBTQIA+ Festival - 2023
Growth Committee - 2021- Present
Saint John Community Arts Board- 2019- Current
Saint John Police Commission- 2021-2023
Community Loan Fund Board Member - 2017-2020
Green Candidate for MLA in Saint John Lancaster - 2020
Entrepreneurship Leadership Program - Middle & High School Entrepreneurship Coach 2017-2020
Startup Weekend Facilitator - 2017-2018
B4Change Program Participant - 2018
Pond Deshpande Centre Passion & Purpose Facilitator - 2016-2017