Meet the
We Are Richmond Candidates
A passionate group running for Mayor, City Council and School Board Trustees dedicated to serving the Richmond community.
Our Candidates
Dickens Cheung
Mayoral Candidate, Richmond BC
I am a father of four and deeply rooted Richmond community leader. I am a chair and board member of the BC Association for Substance Use Prevention, DARE, BC Alliance for Better Health, Richmond India Cultural Society, Christian EE Global Ministries and PAC roles at A.R. MacNeill Secondary and William Cook Elementary. I seek to be your elected mayor to advance transparent and accountable governance, community safety, lower cost of living, taxes, attract new investments and more prosperity.
My mission
- be efficient and make government more accountable and transparent
- protect our community and advocate for tougher punishment for crime and drug use
- be a business hub to attract new and grow businesses; less red tape, more incentives
- reduce taxes, protect home ownership, more affordable housing, ensuring more money is in your pockets
Fluent in: English, Mandarin, Cantonese
Mario Cruz
City Councillor Candidate, Richmond BC
I have proudly served the Richmond community for over 20 years as a Realtor and volunteer, helping first-time homebuyers, families and seniors find a place to call home. As a deeply rooted Richmond resident I am concerned about the direction of our city and committed to building a stronger future for everyone. I am seeking your support to serve as City Councillor to strengthen mental health support services, improve housing affordability, reducing local tax burden and promote responsible, sustainable development.
My mission
- enhance community services and promote sustainable living for families, seniors, young adults and future generations
- expand recreational and social facilities to all residents
- advocate for lower municipal taxes and more affordable housing, so families can keep more money in their pockets
Fluent in: English, Tagalog, Spanish
Michael Lok
City Councillor Candidate, Richmond BC
I am a community leader, business advocate, and internationally recognized martial arts master who has spent over 30 years serving the people of Richmond. My life’s work reflects a deep commitment to building stronger communities, supporting local businesses, and empowering future generations. I founded Lok’s Hapkido School in Richmond becoming one of Canada’s largest martial arts schools, serving over 5,000 students. I was Director, Richmond Chamber of Commerce in 2005, member of Canada's Asia Network Committee since 2009, President of the Richmond Cathay Lions Club in 2010 & President of the Canadian Chinese Business Development Association in 2015.
My mission
- support local businesses and strengthen public safety
- create more opportunities for youth
- build a more connected and inclusive Richmond
Fluent in: English, Mandarin, Cantonese
Antonio Ortega
City Councillor Candidate, Richmond BC
I am a community leader with a Master in Management in Public Service. In dedication to celebrating my heritage, I founded both the Cebuano Society of Canada and the Lapu-Lapu Society of British Columbia. I was a Board Director for Filipino BC, ensured financial accountability and transparency. I also serve as a member of the United Filipino Canadian Association, the Filipino Legacy Society, the Knights of Columbus, and "Open Your Hearts to Jesus."
My mission
- promote safety, community services and enhance sustainable living for families, seniors, young adults and future generations
- expand recreational and social facilities to all residents
- advocate for lower municipal taxes and more affordable housing, so families can keep more money in their pockets
Fluent in: English, Tagalog
Jesse Affleck
City Councillor Candidate, Richmond BC
As a young Canadian with Indigenous Status, I am deeply rooted in the First Nations Communities where my family is from. I believe that this country is built by all Canadians together. One country, one law, one people. With formal legal studies training and experience, I am here to apply my knowledge to do my best in fighting for everyone’s private property rights.
My mission
- enhance community services and promote sustainable living for families, seniors, young adults and future generations
- expand recreational and social facilities to all residents
- advocate for lower municipal taxes and more affordable housing, so families can keep more money in their pockets
Fluent in: English
Community impact
Together with our seniors, youth, families, business leaders and multi-cultural organizations making impact in our community
Join the movement
Join 50,000 Richmond residents making an impact
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Pledge your support to support our mission to deliver a safer community, better education, lower taxes, attract investments and improved community development.
Connect
Dickens CHEUNG for Mayor of Richmond | October 17, 2026
dickens.cheung@wearerichmond.ca
+1 604-338-2912
Contact
contact@wearerichmond.ca
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