Leadership that Listens. · Election Day: October 26, 2026

About Glenn

A community builder who believes leadership starts with showing up.

Glenn Marais has spent years listening, creating, volunteering, and helping neighbours connect. He is running to bring that same spirit of service to Newmarket Council.

Professional headshot of Glenn Marais in a black jacket and blue shirt
Glenn MaraisCommunity builder

His story

Community is not a talking point. It is the work.

As a Newmarket artist and volunteer, Glenn knows that strong communities are built person by person. They grow when people feel welcome, when local ideas are taken seriously, and when public leaders remain available long after election day.

Glenn Marais is a dedicated Newmarket resident, passionate educator, and proven community leader running for Ward 2 Councillor.

With over two decades calling Newmarket home, Glenn has deeply invested his time and energy into the people and neighbourhoods that make this town special. He brings a unique blend of creative problem-solving, unwavering leadership, and a profound commitment to serving the community.

His experience bringing people together has shaped a straightforward approach to leadership: listen without assumptions, work across differences, communicate clearly, and follow through.

“I want every Ward 2 resident to know that their voice matters—and that their councillor is ready to listen and act.”

This campaign is about practical service: safer neighbourhood streets, responsible planning, strong local culture and business, and a town government that treats public trust with care.

Nancy Fish

Recommendation

I have known Glenn Marais for a number of years and his positive, can-do persona is a constant. His steadfast commitment and devotion to community over the years is well proven through his long list of community work in areas such as music education, academic leadership and community advocacy - all of which have garnered him multiple awards for community service. Glenn is approachable, engaged and is a proven committed leader who has the vision to move Ward 2 forward through fiscally-sound decisions that are anchored in community driven values.

It is said that it is vital that we vote our values; as such, I highly recommend Glenn Marais for Ward 2 Councillor.

Nancy Fish

A record of service

A lifetime of service

Glenn's career has been defined by his commitment to education, advocacy, and community building.

01

Music in Mind-Character Education

Developed and delivered impactful character education programs reaching thousands of students, using music to foster resilience, empathy, and positive mental health.

02

Academic Leadership

Dedicated educator shaping the next generation through extensive work in local schools and at Seneca College, with a strong focus on inclusion, cultural celebration, and student success.

03

Community Advocacy

Tireless advocate for social justice, Indigenous reconciliation, and local initiatives. Founder of Say My Name Canada and leader in numerous charitable campaigns including the Terry Fox Run.

Honours and milestones

Awards & Recognition

Honours reflecting a deep and lasting commitment to community service and positive impact.

2023

King Charles III Coronation Medal

Awarded for significant contributions to the community and country.

2022

Queen's Platinum Jubilee Pin

Recognized for dedicated service to the community.

2021

Donald Cousens Community Impact Award

Honoured for exceptional positive impact on the local community.

2019

Town of Newmarket Mentoring Youth Award

Awarded for outstanding dedication to youth development and mentorship.

Founder

Say My Name Canada

Established national anti-bullying and inclusion initiative.

Program Developer

Music in Mind

Created innovative arts-based educational programming.

Let’s build this together

Add your voice to the campaign.