Dhaka, Bangladesh:
Bangladeshi-origin singer Jenifa Gomes is running as a candidate for MNA (Member of the National Assembly) in the Quebec provincial election in Canada.
Note that while Ontario has Bangladeshi federal MPs and provincial MNAs (deputies), this is the first time in Quebec that a person of Bangladeshi origin is standing for election. Besides Jenifa Gomes, three others are also contesting the provincial election, which has created huge excitement and enthusiasm in the Bangladeshi and wider South Asian community. Where there was no precedent of even a single candidate in the past, four candidates are now competing, causing a stir. Their campaign offices are buzzing. Many people are leaving work early or coming straight after work to support a candidate from their own country, seeing them as one of their own, since no Bangladeshi had ever run before.
She is contesting for the provincial legislature seat of Laurier-Dorion in the Quebec provincial election as a candidate of the Canadian Party of Quebec (CaPQ). The Quebec provincial election will be held on October 5, 2026.
She is involved in various social, professional, and community spheres in Montreal. She has experience in healthcare, administration, public relations, fundraising, community activities, and election work.
She takes part in many social and cultural initiatives in Montreal, including those of the Bangladeshi community. Alongside the activities of the Bangladesh Society of Montreal, she has also been involved in cultural events, community programs, fundraising, and partnership-based initiatives.
Her service as a Returning Officer with Elections Canada gives her professional experience in election administration and voting operations. In addition, her work in the healthcare sector at the McGill University Health Centre is a significant part of her professional life.
Because she can communicate in Bengali, English, French, Urdu, and Hindi, she has the opportunity to connect with people from Montreal's many linguistic and cultural communities.
She has also highlighted her interest and experience in community participation, diversity and inclusion, civic engagement, and women's leadership.