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[Photo Credit : KAIROS Canada, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons]
✈️ A New Beginning
Iqra Khalid was born in Bahawalpur, in the Punjab region of Pakistan — a place far removed from the halls of Canadian politics. Wikipedia+1 When she was a child, her family first moved to England (as her father completed a PhD), before finally immigrating to Canada in 1998. Wikipedia+2Dawn+2 They settled in Mississauga (Erin Mills), Ontario, where life would begin anew. iqrakhalid.libparl.ca+1
Life wasn’t always easy — the family ran a small grocery/butcher shop, and young Iqra, along with her siblings, helped out after school. Dawn+1 But those early responsibilities helped shape her character: perseverance, humility, community — values many newcomers will recognize.
📚 From Schooling to Purpose
Growing up between two worlds — the heritage of Pakistan and the opportunities of Canada — Iqra was determined to make the most of her new home. She enrolled at York University in Toronto and, in 2007, earned a degree in criminology and professional writing. Wikipedia+1 Even during her student years she stayed engaged, working as a media-ambassador for the alumni program. Wikipedia+1
After graduating, she started working at an immigration firm — a role that gave her insight into Canada’s immigration system and the challenges many newcomers face. Wikipedia+1 Driven by a desire to deepen her impact, Iqra pursued a law degree (Juris Doctor) at Western Michigan University Cooley Law School, where she graduated with honours in 2012. Wikipedia+1 Returning to Mississauga, she worked as an articled clerk at the city’s legal department — putting her skills and passion to use for her community. Wikipedia+1
🏛️ Stepping Into Public Service
From supporting her family’s store after school to studying law and working for the City of Mississauga — Iqra’s path was marked by dedication and service. By 2015, she decided to take another bold step: running for federal office. That year, she was elected as the first Member of Parliament for the newly created riding of Mississauga—Erin Mills. Wikipedia+1
Since then, she has been re-elected multiple times, including in 2025 — showing strong support from her community and reflecting her commitment to serving Canadian citizens of all backgrounds. Geo News+2Library of Parliament+2
As MP, Iqra has taken on key roles and fought for issues close to her — equality, justice, diversity, and inclusion. She became nationally recognized in 2017 when she tabled Motion 103 — a call for the government to recognize and condemn Islamophobia and systemic religious discrimination. Wikipedia+2Grokipedia+2 Her work, often grounded in her own immigrant experience and identity, has made her a voice for many Canadians, especially those from immigrant communities.
🌟 What Her Story Means
- Roots and resilience: Iqra’s journey reminds us — no matter where you start, you can build something meaningful. From helping at a family shop to shaping national conversations.
- Education and ambition: She leveraged education and hard work to open doors, never forgetting her beginnings.
- Giving back: Her career in law, public service, and politics reflects a commitment to serve — not just herself, but entire communities.
- Representation matters: As a Pakistani-born woman in Canadian Parliament, she represents many first-generation Canadians who often feel unseen.
