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Abbotsford swears in its youngest elected official ever

Oct 23, 2025 | 9:11 AM

ABBOTSFORD — Abbotsford has sworn in its newest elected official and the youngest to ever hold office in the municipality.

In a statement, the Abbotsford Board of Education says it pleased to welcome Arsh Kaler as its newest member, following his official swearing-in at the public board meeting held on Tuesday, October 21.

“We are delighted to welcome Trustee Kaler to the Board,” said Board Chair Shirley Wilson. “His enthusiasm, community-minded approach, and deep commitment to public education will be tremendous assets as we work together to support students, staff, and families across our district.”

“I’m honoured to serve the Abbotsford community as a member of the Abbotsford Board of Education,” said Trustee Kaler. “ I look forward to working alongside my fellow Trustees to support our students, families, and community.”

Kaler was elected earlier this month in a by-election to fill the vacant seat on the Board. He made history as the youngest official ever elected in the City of Abbotsford.

The board says his election reflects a strong message from the community about the importance of civic engagement and fresh perspectives in local leadership.

Kaler received 2,908 votes out of 4,830 ballots cast, or 60 per cent, beating the next nearest opponent by a more than 2-to-1 margin.

Kaler is a community and event coordinator at Abbotsford Hospice and Grief Society, and has served as a secretary at the Fraser Valley Indo-Canadian Business Association, treasurer at Kirpa Collective, president at Smiles Through Seva Foundation, and as owner and CEO at Kaler Enterprises Ltd., according to his Facebook profile.