Outgoing Mayor Maja Tait recognized nationally for municipal leadership and advancing women in public office

The District of Sooke congratulates outgoing Mayor Maja Tait on being named among three Canadians honoured for municipal leadership, recognizing 18 years of public service and a lasting contribution to local government in British Columbia and beyond. 

First elected to Sooke Council in 2008, including 12 years as Mayor, Tait’s leadership has extended well beyond the community. Throughout her career, she has championed greater representation of women in local government and worked to create more inclusive opportunities for women to participate in public office. 

That commitment became particularly personal in 2015, when Tait and her husband Alex welcomed their son, Ewan, while she was serving as Mayor. Her experience navigating motherhood and elected office helped bring attention to barriers facing elected officials who become parents. Advocacy through the Union of BC Municipalities contributed to changes in provincial legislation supporting parental leave for locally elected officials across British Columbia. 

An experience that began with one Sooke family helped advance an important change for local governments throughout the province. 

“Mayor Tait leaves a remarkable legacy, not only through her years of service to Sooke, but through the doors she has helped open for others,” said Mayor Kevin Pearson. “Her advocacy for women in local government and her work to make public office more accessible to parents will have an impact well beyond her time at the Council table. On behalf of the District and our community, congratulations, Maja, on this well-deserved national recognition, and thank you for your dedication and service.” 

Tait also served as President of the Union of BC Municipalities in 2020–2021, supporting initiatives to strengthen women’s participation and leadership in local government. 

Her 18 years of service have been defined by relationship-building, collaboration with neighbouring First Nations and other levels of government, and advocacy for Sooke residents. Her commitment to engaging young people in civic life has also helped encourage the next generation of community leaders. 

The District of Sooke extends its sincere congratulations and appreciation to Mayor Tait for this recognition and for a legacy that will continue to influence local government and public leadership for years to come.