Meet Cindy
l CINDY'S STORY l
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Cindy Ward is proudly from Kitchener, and her life’s work reflects a deep commitment to this city and its people. She raised her family here, built her career here, and has spent decades helping strengthen a community that is more connected, more resilient, and full of possibility.
A scientist, PhD, entrepreneur, innovator, and lifelong community builder, Cindy brings an exceptionally broad range of experience to public life. She is deeply research-driven and believes the best decisions are grounded in evidence, lived experience, and a clear understanding of people’s real needs. Her background includes studies in law and real estate, experience in financial markets as a stockbroker, hands-on work in small business development, and more than a decade of graduate research focused on people, communities, and environmental responsibility. During her PhD journey, she also worked on community environmental projects alongside Green Party member, Mike Morrice, deepening her understanding of sustainable, community-based action. Cindy’s path has never been narrow. She has built and grown businesses, taught small business courses, and mentored entrepreneurs, giving her a deep understanding of what it takes to create opportunity and strengthen the small business backbone of this city. She was the original creator of The Boathouse in Victoria Park, where she helped foster a strong local music scene built on collaboration and community connection. Across her ventures, Cindy has built with discipline, creativity, and sound judgment. Her leadership also reflects a deep connection to the culture and character of Kitchener. She has run the Schneider Creek Porch Party for 13 years, helping bring neighbours, artists, and community together year after year. She also brought her trademark energy and determination to MasterChef Canada, where she proved once again that she is never afraid to step up to a challenge and give it everything she has. From boardrooms to neighbourhood spaces, from business development to community-building, Cindy understands both the big picture and the everyday realities people face. That well-rounded experience gives her the practical insight, economic understanding, creativity, and people-focused leadership needed to tackle the full range of issues facing a growing city. Cindy is running for Mayor because she believes Kitchener deserves fresh leadership that listens, includes everyone, and delivers creative problem-solving. She knows the best solutions come from bringing people together, facing challenges head-on, and ensuring every resident has a voice in shaping the city’s future. And in many ways, this calling began long ago: growing up in Kitchener, Cindy always believed that one day she would serve this city as its Mayor. |
Love Kitchener !
Coworkers extraordinaire.
Winners! - Gagnant!
Bluesfest!
Kitchener historical walking tour.
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l Woman of the year l
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In 2024, Cindy was honoured with the 40+ Entrepreneur of the Year Award, recognizing her entrepreneurial leadership, determination, and proven ability to turn vision into results. Throughout her career, she has built and grown multiple businesses, bringing creativity, resilience, and bold thinking to every challenge.
This award reflects more than business success — it reflects Cindy’s lifelong belief in possibility, innovation, and service. She believes it is never too late to build something meaningful, pursue a dream, or make a lasting contribution to the community. |
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