Meet the people pinning their hopes on newly-minted MP Robert-Falcon Ouellette
Winnipeg Centre is one of the most diverse - and poorest ridings in the country. For many of the folks who call it home, expectations are high on their newly-elected MP to change their lives for the better.
Rory Lepine
Born and raised in Winnipeg, tradesman for hire, fearless cyclist.
On his birthday last week, he celebrated by getting a free beer at Winnipeg Centre's oldest bar, The Woodbine.
I'm a hard worker and I need a break. I'll take anything. I'm a heavy equipment operator, I do concrete, I can tie steel.- Rory Lepine
Lionel Daniels
University student, former gang member, father to two girls.
He knew everybody had a shady past. He said that shouldn't exclude you from a better future.- Lionel Daniels
When I talked to [Lionel] for the first time, I just said: 'I believe in you. I can see a power within you, and I can see that fire in your eyes. You can do it - I believe in you - and I'll be there beside you'.- Robert-Falcon Ouellette
Alma Brigole
Immigrated from the Philippines in 2010. Trying to improve her English so she can get a job as a teacher.
I feel sad because I would really like to take English courses but I have to pay and that is not possible for me right now.- Alma Brigole
Charmaine
Lives on Spence Street.
Got a selfie with RFO at the Spence Street Festival. She still has it on her phone.
I got new covers for my bed, for bed bugs. Better to be safe than sorry.- Charmaine
Jim Kane
Lifelong resident of Winnipeg Centre,retired CN worker, HIV/AIDS activist.
I believe that Robert will be our voice in Ottawa. And if they don't, I look forward to turning the heat up on them. Because once you get elected, you need someone to kick you in the butt every once in awhile to make sure you do what you say you're going to do.- Jim Kane
Veronica Johnston
Life-long Winnipeg Centre resident, mother of two kids, mentors other women who live downtown.
I've been on EIA. I know what it's like when things go wrong for you and you have to rely on that (EIA). It's not a lot of money.- Veronica Johnston
If I could take Winnipeg Centre from being the second poorest riding in the country to more in the Canadian average, I would be very happy.- Robert-Falcon Ouellette