We had a chance to meet up with Ruby during her first visit back to her hometown of Winnipeg after being sworn in as the Member of Parliament for the riding of Brampton-Springdale in Ontario. We were invited to an appreciation gala for all those dedicated community members who helped with Ruby's campaign. The gala organized by Ruby's uncle, and campaign manager, Paul Dhillon, featuring numerous attendees all having nothing but kind and supportive words for Ruby. Many elders reminisced about how her leadership and responsibility could be seen far before she entered the political arena. Others highlighted her accomplishments and praised her dedication and determination citing her as a star in our community, a true and well-deserved accolade. However, the theme of the night revolved around Ruby's caring and warm personality, her family values and her commitment to our community. It was overwhelming that the community wasn't just honouring a successful campaign; they were honouring their daughter.

Ruby became involved in politics at the age of 12. As a young girl she was part of a program entitled Forum of Young Canadians. The focus of the program was to educate students of how it was that the Government operated. One of the requirements Ruby recalls was to collect a donation from a local Member of Parliament in order to contribute to the overall costs of the program. "At that time David Walker was the MP for Winnipeg North Center. I along with my mother Tavinder went to visit Mr. Walker to get a donation. I received the $100 donation but in return I had to volunteer every Saturday for a year to collect that money". The experience was well worth it and continued to inspire Ruby as she further pursued her interests in politics. Ruby went on to volunteer and chair many organizations accumulating the type of experience most people never gain.

As a University student, Ruby turned her attention towards healthcare. A graduate of the University of Winnipeg with a bachelor of science, she moved to Toronto in 1995 to pursue her studies as a doctor of chiropractic medicine, graduating in 1999. She was successfully operating a chain of rehabilitation healthcare clinics in the Greater Toronto Area when another one of her passions couldn't be ignored any longer.

Ruby put her medical career on hold to pursue her passion for acting. She believes you must 'make the most out of every moment.' "Live everyday to the fullest while exploring your interests and pursuing your passions". She did just that as she took acting courses for 5 years to chase her dream of becoming an actress. The more she acted the more she realized that she truly enjoyed it. She feels that acting was a 'great opportunity to express and explore and bring life to the characters she played. As much as she enjoyed acting, destiny was knocking on the door and an opportunity of a lifetime presented itself.

Ruby received a phone call from the Prime Minister's office notifying her that they were searching for a young successful professional in the Health Care field for the riding of Brampton-Springdale. Ruby reluctantly accepted and would go on to make history. Ruby prides herself in her ability to be accessible, approachable and accountable as an MP.

Ruby says she is not only representing the Brampton-Springdale constituency but is also a voice for the South Asian community at large. “I feel very honoured and privileged to be a strong voice and will do all that I can to make sure that all issues and concerns are heard". Ruby will ensure issues such as health care, foreign trained crediting, the economy, and education are on the forefront. Being a first generation Indo-Canadian she has an inside perspective of the grassroots challenge.

Another one of her priorities is the involvement of youth and women in politics. "I feel that there is a different level of expectations being a visible minority in the House of Commons. She says. "There is a moral responsibility to ensure all ethnic Canadians have doors open to them. It is very important to reach out to Canada's youth and get them involved in political workings for they are the future. It is necessary to provide opportunities along with a solid platform to those who think outside the box. You have to support those who are driven to make a difference".
Ruby definitely feels that more women should become involved in politics and has actively promoted the cause by being a member of the Women in Politics movement (organization). “Women do face different challenges than men and approach politics differently. Women are very warm and compassionate and are great listeners when it comes to decision-making and contributing to the political arena.

Overall, Ruby is very excited as she embarks upon her political journey. “I am very excited about the future and look forward to bringing a fresh and unique perspective to Parliament. I am very eager to help open doors and create opportunities for young people across Canada”.

The one message I would like to leave with all Canadians is to believe in yourself and always respect and appreciate what each person brings to your life. No matter whom it is they always have some thing to offer and something we can each learn from. Bring the good out in everybody. Make sure to develop yourself as knowledge is power so make sure to educate yourself on all that you believe in. Take the initiative to surround yourself with the best people and watch them, learn form them, and most importantly grow with them.

Ruby has accomplished many things in her life but says her biggest achievement is “being content with who I am. I live a very balanced life. You always have to remember where you came from and never lose sight of where you are going”.

Ruby’s enthusiasm, passion and excitement captivate everyone she meets. Her values are represented in her respect for elders and children alike. She’s a great role model for young Canadians across the country. We are sure to celebrate her many accomplishments in the future and will always be proud to say that is our Ruby. MeraDesh