Vanessa Mensah

One of the best parts of canvassing is meeting the people who make Kingston what it is.

I recently met a senior who walks nearly 35 kilometres to support his mental and physical well-being. Over the course of more than two hours, I saw him still out there, one step at a time, committed to his health and his routine. His grand-nephews affectionately call him "Kingston's Forest Grump," and I have to say, it suits him perfectly with a smile hiding behind the title.

Then came the Kingston moment. As we talked, we discovered we're connected through his sister. Small Kingston.

If you know her, you know. She's a Tia to so many. A woman whose kindness, warmth, and generosity seem to touch everyone she meets. She's one of those rare people whose light shines brighter than the sun.

Our conversation reminded me that healthy, connected communities don't happen by accident. They happen when people of every generation feel they belong, can stay active, and know their neighbours.

A city where conversations become connections, strangers become neighbours, and we discover that our lives are more connected than we ever imagined.

Every conversation reminds me that this campaign is about people first. It's about building a Kingston where everyone from our youngest residents to the seniors who have helped shape our city and can thrive.

Thank you, "Kingston's Forest Grump," for the conversation, the laughs, and the reminder that the heart of Kingston has always been its people. ❤️

Ready to make a difference in Kingston? Join Vanessa’s campaign and help build a stronger, more connected city where every voice matters.

Whether you can knock on doors, support events, make calls, or help behind the scenes, there’s a place for you on the team.

Sign up today at vanessamensahforkingston.ca.

When we talk about building a resilient local economy, we often think about attracting large employers and supporting small businesses. Both are essential.

But resilience also looks like Gordon.

While canvassing, I met Gordon, a senior who has built more than 400 cedar birdhouses over the years. Working from his home built in the 1800s, he carefully crafts each one by hand. At $75, they're made to last, and if you've spent time around Sydenham Road and Arnold Street, you've probably already seen his work.

For Gordon, building birdhouses isn't just a hobby. It keeps him active, sharp, and connected to his community. And for those who buy one, it's a chance to invest in something that's beautifully made, built to last, and proudly local.

As mayor, I want Kingston to continue supporting the businesses that employ hundreds of people, while also celebrating neighbours like Gordon, whose craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, and passion are part of what makes our local economy strong.

If you're looking for a birdhouse, consider buying one or even two. You'll be supporting a local maker, bringing home something built with care, and helping keep a Kingston tradition alive.

These are the stories that remind me our economy isn't just measured in dollars. It's measured in people.

Today, on Emancipation Day, I had the privilege of attending the City of Kingston’s flag-raising ceremony, an important moment of reflection, remembrance, and community.
Emancipation Day reminds us that slavery existed in what is now Ontario and that freedom, dignity, and equality have always depended on people willing to challenge injustice and expand opportunity for others.
During my time with the City, I was proud to support efforts that created space for this recognition and encouraged honest conversations about our shared history. Remembering our past is not about division; it is about understanding where we have come from and ensuring that every person feels they belong in our community.
As I meet residents across Kingston, I’m reminded that what people want most is a city where they feel safe, respected, included, and hopeful about the future. That is the Kingston I believe we can build together, a city that honours its history while creating opportunity for the next generation.
Kingston’s strength has always been its people: neighbours who look out for one another, volunteers who serve quietly, educators who open doors, advocates who speak up, and community leaders who work every day to make our city stronger.
On this Emancipation Day, may we continue to learn from our history, celebrate the progress that has been made, and renew our commitment to a Kingston where everyone has the opportunity to contribute, belong, and thrive.
One Kingston. One Future.