In February 2025, Soraya Martinez Ferrada made a bold political move. She stepped down as Canada’s Tourism Minister to lead Ensemble Montréal. This marked a historic transition from federal to municipal leadership. Her decision was not just a career shift but a potential game-changer for Montreal’s political landscape.
Ferrada’s journey began in October 2019 when she was elected as the Member of Parliament for Hochelaga. By July 2023, she had risen to the federal cabinet as the Ministre du Tourisme. Her focus on économique Canada régions and Canada régions Québec showcased her commitment to regional development. Now, she aims to bring that same dedication to Montreal’s municipal governance.
Her candidacy is groundbreaking. If elected, she would become the first Chilean-Canadian mayor in Montreal’s history. This milestone highlights her dual legacy in both the Hochelaga riding and the Saint-Michel district. Her experience in federal economic development positions her uniquely to address local challenges.
This strategic shift underscores her versatility and vision. From federal cabinet to municipal leadership, Soraya Martinez Ferrada continues to shape Canada’s political future.
Who is Soraya Martinez Ferrada?
Born in Santiago, Chile, her life took a dramatic turn in 1980. Fleeing the Pinochet regime, her family sought refuge in Montreal’s East End. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life, deeply rooted in the Saint-Michel neighborhood.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Montreal’s Saint-Michel arrondissement, she developed a strong connection to her community. Her early experiences shaped her commitment to social and cultural development. She later worked at TOHU, a cultural center, where she spearheaded programs to integrate arts into community life.
Political Beginnings in Montreal
Her political career began in 2005 when she was elected as a councillor for Saint-Michel under Union Montréal. This role allowed her to advocate for local issues and strengthen community ties. Later, she joined Vision Montréal, further expanding her influence in municipal politics.
Despite a council loss in 2009, her dedication to public service remained unwavering. This setback paved the way for her transition to federal politics, where she continued to make significant contributions.
Soraya Martinez Ferrada’s Federal Career
October 2019 marked a pivotal moment in her political journey. She won the Hochelaga riding by a narrow margin of 328 votes, defeating the Bloc Québécois candidate Simon Marchand. This victory ended the NDP’s eight-year hold on the riding, signaling a shift in voter sentiment.
Election as Member of Parliament for Hochelaga
Her élection in octobre 2019 was a hard-fought battle. The campaign highlighted her deep connection to the community and her vision for economic growth. By securing 38% of the votes in the 2021 re-election, she demonstrated growing support for her leadership.
Roles as Minister of Tourism and Economic Development
In July 2023, she was appointed Ministre du Tourisme by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Overseeing a $1.8 billion sector, she focused on recovery programs for Quebec’s tourism industry post-COVID. Her work with the Economic Development Agency for Quebec regions showcased her commitment to regional growth.
Key Achievements in Federal Politics
She co-chaired the 2023 National Tourism Growth Strategy, which aimed to revitalize the hospitality sector. Her advocacy for immigrant communities and pandemic recovery measures for Montreal’s businesses further solidified her reputation as a dedicated leader. These efforts reflect her ability to address both local and national challenges effectively.
The Shift to Municipal Politics
March 2025 marked a defining moment in her political trajectory. After over five years of dedicated federal service, she resigned her seat to pursue a new challenge. This bold move signaled her commitment to addressing local issues at the municipal level.
Decision to Lead Ensemble Montréal
Her decision to lead Ensemble Montréal was met with widespread support. Seven party councillors quickly endorsed her, citing her federal experience as a valuable asset. In an entrevue, she emphasized the need for unity and a shared vision within the party. “This is about bringing people together to build a stronger Montreal,” she stated.
Challenges and Opportunities in Municipal Governance
Taking on the role of opposition leader comes with its own set of challenges. However, her federal background positions her uniquely to navigate these complexities. Key priorities include infrastructure upgrades and improving bureaucratic efficiency. Leveraging her experience with economic development agencies, she aims to secure cross-governmental funding partnerships.
Vision for Montreal’s Future
Her vision for Montreal is rooted in développement économique and improved service delivery. Plans include modernizing public transit and enhancing community programs. “Montreal has immense potential, and I’m committed to unlocking it,” she shared in a recent entrevue. Her dual experience in federal and provincial cabinets makes her a strong candidate to lead the city into a prosperous future.
Conclusion
The 2025 Montreal election could redefine the city’s political future. As a candidate for mayor, she brings a unique perspective shaped by her federal experience. Her potential election would mark a historic milestone, doubling representation as a female immigrant leader.
This transition from federal to municipal governance sets a precedent for future leaders. It also highlights the evolving nature of political careers in Canada. Her vision for développement économique and improved service delivery could reshape Montreal’s régions.
The election is seen as a referendum on critical issues like housing and transit. Her leadership could foster stronger federal-municipal cooperation, benefiting the city’s growth. As the campaign unfolds, her parti aims to unite Montrealers around a shared vision for progress.
Stay tuned to see how this candidate and her parti navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. The next ans could be transformative for Montreal’s future.