Montreal just made history. Soraya Martinez Ferrada, born in Chile and raised in St-Michel, has become the city’s first Latin American mayor — and only the second woman ever to hold the position.

The 53-year-old leader captured 43% of the vote on Sunday, bringing Ensemble Montréal back to power. “I am an immigrant, I am a child of Bill 101, I am a woman of Montreal, and I am here, chez moi,” she told a cheering crowd, celebrating a victory that speaks to the heart of the city’s diversity.

Arriving in Montreal as a child refugee fleeing the Pinochet regime, Martinez Ferrada grew up with her single mother, Maritza, who’s supported her through every campaign. After years of ups and downs in politics — from city council to Parliament and even serving as Canada’s tourism minister — Soraya’s persistence has paid off.

Her campaign focused on listening to Montrealers, building affordable housing, addressing homelessness, and reversing controversial policies from the previous administration. She’s promised to lead with pragmatism and unity, working for all communities across the city.

For Latin Americans across Canada, her victory is more than political — it’s symbolic. It’s a story of resilience, belonging, and representation. From Santiago to Montreal City Hall, Soraya Martinez Ferrada’s win is a moment of orgullo latino — Latin pride — that will be remembered for years to come. 🇨🇦✨