Meet Arzeena
I am a local organic farmer and food security advocate with a passion for sustainable agriculture. I hold a bachelor’s degree in crop science from the University of Guelph and a master’s degree in sustainable agriculture from the University of London, England.
My journey in agriculture began as a CUSO volunteer in Thailand from 1993-95, which eventually led me to work as a researcher in Jamaica, India, and Bangladesh. I then served as the staff agrologist for West Coast Seeds from 1997-1999 and later became the coordinator of the Richmond Food Security Society in Richmond, BC, from 2008-2012. In 2010, I was instrumental in launching the Richmond Farm School.
In 2012, my husband and I moved our family to the Comox Valley, where we now run Amara Farm, a 25-acre certified organic farm in Courtenay. Since our move, I have been involved in launching the Mid-Island Farmers’ Institute and the Comox Valley Food Policy Council. I also actively volunteer with the CV Seed Savers and the local Farm to School movement.
In 2018, I was honoured to be elected to the Board of the Comox Valley Regional District, serving as both Vice Chair and Director for Area B until fall 2022.
Professional and Community Involvement
Small Business Owner: Amara Farm - Chamber of Commerce award winner
Chair: Young Agrarians
Board Member:
Comox Valley Arts
COVX Community Radio
CV Community Health Network
Mid Island Farmers’ Institute
Comox Valley Food Policy Council
Why I'm Running
In the summer of 2021, I stood in my fields at 7 a.m., watching my crops literally cook at 29°C. It was the first time I—and most other farmers in the Comox Valley—had experienced a heat dome.
The heat dome lasted from June 25 to July 1, claiming over 600 lives in British Columbia. The federal government called it “the deadliest weather event in Canada to date.” Additionally, billions of molluscs and other marine creatures perished.
For many of us, the heat dome was a wake-up call. We were not prepared. It became clear to me that issues of extreme heat, emergency preparedness, watershed conservation, and other climate-related challenges are not being adequately addressed by the provincial NDP government.
As a farmer, parent, and small business owner, I want to be the voice for our community in the provincial legislature. The NDP government has set ambitious climate goals but has failed to take meaningful action on most of them. As a BC Green MLA, I will push the government to deliver on its green promises.
We must develop programs that help British Columbians prepare for—and survive—more extreme weather events. We need to become wiser with our resources and more resilient in the face of drought, fire, and heat. We must leave a livable planet for our children and grandchildren. Our personal health is deeply tied to the health of our environment and community. When we unite and speak up together to hold the government accountable, we can effect real change. This is why I am running for the BC Greens.
“I am so grateful to be a Canadian, having grown up in a country where I felt safe, secure and that supported me to be my best person. The values of inclusion, kindness, and compassion are ones I hold dear.
But I know that has not been the case for everyone, especially for our Indigenous friends, neighbours and family. Canada was built on the genocide and erasure of their people and culture and I need to acknowledge that every day, especially on Canada Day.
Can I hold both happiness and grief at the same time? I am learning that it's ok and maybe even necessary to do so. So to those who are celebrating today, I send warm thoughts and smiles. To those who are grieving, I hold you in my heart and commit to working together in a better way.
This beautiful artwork is by Kwakwaka'wakw artist Curtis Wilson and captures a sentiment that I hope we can reach one day
“Standing together in support of each other.”
- Arzeena Hamir
Achievements
Achievements as Comox Valley Regional District Area B Director and Vice Chair (2018-2022)
During my tenure as Comox Valley Regional District Area B Director and Vice Chair, I have proudly led and supported numerous initiatives that have significantly improved the quality of life for our residents. Here are some of the key accomplishments:
Odour Reduction for Brent Rd and Lazo Area
Successfully advocated for the coverage of the sewage treatment plant, reducing unpleasant odours and enhancing living conditions for residents of Brent Rd and the Lazo area.
Construction of Merville Fire Hall
Collaborated with the Area C Director to ensure the successful construction of the Merville Fire Hall, enhancing emergency services and safety for the community.
Ending Ineffective Economic Development Contract
Terminated the $1.2 million contract with the Comox Valley Economic Development Society (CVEDS) due to its limited benefits for Area B residents, redirecting resources to more impactful initiatives.
Ban on Glyphosate in Parks
Implemented a ban on the use of glyphosate in CVRD parks, promoting a healthier and safer environment for our residents.
Agricultural Area Plan Grant
Assisted in securing a grant for the 2022/23 Agricultural Area Plan, supporting sustainable agriculture and local farming initiatives.
Air Quality Improvement for Croteau Beach
Supported residents of Croteau Beach in efforts to enhance air quality, particularly during the summer months, contributing to healthier living conditions.
Committee Leadership
Chaired both the Electoral Area Services Committee and the Solid Waste Committee, leading initiatives to improve regional services and waste management.
Increased Bike Lanes in Lazo Community
Partnered with the Town of Comox to expand bike lanes in the Lazo community, promoting safer and more sustainable transportation options.
Food Security Initiatives
Collaborated with LUSH Valley to develop the Comox Valley Food Policy Council, supporting food security initiatives and ensuring access to healthy, local food throughout the valley.
Development of a Regional Parks Service
Spearheaded the creation of a Regional Parks Service, working with the community to purchase regionally important tracts of land, increasing green spaces and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
These achievements reflect my commitment to improving our community's infrastructure, environment, and overall well-being. I am dedicated to continuing this work and ensuring that our region remains a vibrant and sustainable place to live.
Arzeena Hamir
Proven, Effective leader
Your voice in the community… your voice in the Legislature.