SIX new members are joining the 21-member Provincial Child Care Council (PCCC) and they include Kulvinder (Kelly) Sidhu, who will be the only South Asian on that council.
The council plays a crucial role in supporting the Province’s commitment to build an inclusive, universal child care system for B.C. families.
“The Provincial Child Care Council is a vital partner as we continue to create a universal system that will give families access to affordable, quality and inclusive child care in every part of the province,” said Katrina Chen, Minister of State for Child Care. “As we enter the fourth year of our 10-year Childcare BC plan, we will continue to draw on the council’s expertise, which will help us build on the steps we have taken so far to make life better and more affordable for families.”
PCCC members are trusted, confidential advisors to the Minister of Children and Family Development and the Minister of State for Child Care.
“We are committed to listening and learning from the experts who understand what parents, child care providers, children and our community partners need,” said Mitzi Dean, Minister of Children and Family Development. “Members of the Provincial Child Care Council help us understand what our partners see and experience on the ground, so we can continue to build momentum on Childcare BC and make a real difference for families.”
The PCCC provides advice on the policies and programs that affect the affordability, quality and accessibility of child care. Its members are appointed from throughout the province and represent key partners in delivering universal child care: Indigenous communities, the business sector, child care providers, the education system, the non-profit sector and local governments.
“It is an incredibly exciting time for child care in B.C.,” said Sandra Menzer, Chair, PCCC. “I’m looking forward to working with our newest members to support the Province’s work to deliver a universal child care system that will make a life-changing difference to families across B.C.”
Sidhu is a program officer for Service Canada and the regional women’s co-ordinator as the B.C. representative for Public Service Alliance of Canada. As an active member of her community, Sidhu is treasurer and women’s representative for the Canada Employment Immigration Union.
She is also a kitchen helper for Guru Nanak Free Kitchen and an advocate for the Coalition of Child Care Advocates BC. Previously, Sidhu was a board member of the City of Richmond Intercultural Advisory and Seniors Advisory Committee.
Sidhu holds a bachelor of arts in business administration from Wolverhampton University in England.
