Colleen James Regional Councillor Region of Waterloo
Councillor Region of Waterloo
Representing Kitchener Residents
get to know colleen
Born and Raised
Committees & Community Involvement
Born and Raised
Born and raised in Kitchener, Colleen’s family immigrated to Waterloo Region more than 50 years ago. She currently lives in Kitchener with her husband and life partner Daren and daughter.
- CEO & Founder, Divonify Incorporated
- Former Professor, Conestoga College
- Former staff, Region of Waterloo
- Former staff, City of Waterloo
Post secondary:
- Uni
Born and raised in Kitchener, Colleen’s family immigrated to Waterloo Region more than 50 years ago. She currently lives in Kitchener with her husband and life partner Daren and daughter.
- CEO & Founder, Divonify Incorporated
- Former Professor, Conestoga College
- Former staff, Region of Waterloo
- Former staff, City of Waterloo
Post secondary:
- University of Toronto (OISE), Masters of Ed.
- University of Toronto, History, Political Science and Caribbean Studies
- Centennial College, Leadership and Inclusion
Secondary School:
- Resurrection Catholic Secondary School
Elementary School:
- Laurentian Public School
- Glencairn Public School
Our Community
Committees & Community Involvement
Born and Raised
Colleen James – Regional Councillor, Leader, and Change-maker
Colleen James is a dedicated leader, advocate, and community champion serving as a Regional Councillor for the Region of Waterloo, representing Kitchener residents. With a deep commitment to public service, she brings a wealth of experience in leadership, education, and policy,
Colleen James – Regional Councillor, Leader, and Change-maker
Colleen James is a dedicated leader, advocate, and community champion serving as a Regional Councillor for the Region of Waterloo, representing Kitchener residents. With a deep commitment to public service, she brings a wealth of experience in leadership, education, and policy, working to create a more connected, sustainable, and thriving community for all residents.
As the Chair of Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development, Colleen plays a pivotal role in shaping the region’s future. She is passionate about building resilient communities, fostering innovation, and ensuring that infrastructure development reflects
the diverse needs of the people she serves. Her leadership is rooted in collaboration, transparency, and a steadfast belief in responsible growth and sustainability.
Colleen’s journey into public service is shaped by her extensive background in
education, leadership, and civic engagement. She has a proven track record of working with diverse partners, residents, businesses, and policymakers alike, to turn ideas into action. Her ability to listen, engage, and build consensus makes her a strong advocate for practical and forward-thinking solutions.
Her dedication and leadership have been recognized with numerous awards,
celebrating her contributions to community development, leadership, and public service. These accolades reflect her commitment to making meaningful, lasting change in Waterloo Region and beyond.
In 2025, Colleen ran in the provincial election, bringing her vision, leadership, and community-first approach to a broader stage. Through this experience, she deepened her commitment to championing the issues that matter most to residents, advocating for sustainable growth, strong public services, and a future where every voice is heard. With a passion for service and a vision for a more prosperous and inclusive future, Colleen James continues to lead with integrity, determination, and a deep love for the community she serves.
Committees & Community Involvement
Committees & Community Involvement
Committees & Community Involvement
Council Appointed Committees
- Administration and Finance
- Audit
- Budget
- Community and Health Services
- Sustainability, Infrastructure and Development (Chair)
- Grand River Conservation Authority
- Regional Rep - Waterloo Town and Gown Committee
Community Involvement
Council Appointed Committees
- Administration and Finance
- Audit
- Budget
- Community and Health Services
- Sustainability, Infrastructure and Development (Chair)
- Grand River Conservation Authority
- Regional Rep - Waterloo Town and Gown Committee
Community Involvement
- Co Chair - Congress of Black Politicians
- Advisory Board Member, ForUSGirls Foundation
- Capacity Canada's - Wise Women Council (Open Hearth Project)
Previous Boards
- KPL Board
- Oktoberfest Board