If you would’ve told me 10 years ago that I would be living in Vermont and running for City Council, I wouldn't have believed you. My journey to find this place I now call home has been a long one, and I feel lucky to have found such a passionate and socially dedicated community.

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Coming from a part of Philadelphia that had its challenges, including drugs, crimes, gangs, and murders, I partially moved to Burlington to seek a more calm and safe environment to attend college. At the time, I was apprehensive as I wasn’t sure what my purpose was in college, but after a short visit in 2012, I knew immediately that there was something special about this small city when I decided to call it home.

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In Burlington, I formed a whole new support system and community. My network grew, and my sense of belonging grew. I gained an appreciation for public service and dedicated my career to serving families and communities. These were not my plans when I arrived, but they became the reason I stayed as well as a big part of who I am. And how I give back.

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I decided to run for City Council because I want to give back to the community that has given me so much.
 

I bring a set of life experiences to this election, and believe my perspective will be both unique and valuable and will bring sensibility and compassion to City Hall.

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- Malik