Dirka is a Lead Geotechnical Engineer/Project Manager who holds a Master of Science in Civil Engineering. During her 25+ years as a professional engineer, she has contributed to countless provincial and municipal infrastructure projects in southern Ontario, including here in London.

She would like to continue to serve her community by helping to solve London’s housing and homelessness crisis in an equitable and environmentally sustainable way.

From 2022 to 2025, Dirka has served as Chair of the Board of Directors for Unity Project for the Relief of Homelessness in London. She advocates for increased supports for low-income, homeless, and precariously housed Londoners.

From 2005 to 2021, Dirka served as President of the London Chapter of Spelling Bee of Canada, where she promoted youth literacy and helped children hone in on their academic goals and develop perseverance and grit.

Her first volunteer stint in London was as a donation sorter at Women’s Community House (ANOVA), which instilled in her a critical understanding of the presence of gender-based violence in Canada and the urgent measures needed to eradicate it.

As a result of her dedication to the community, Dirka received an Excellence Award for Outstanding service at the 2023 Essence and Culture Awards by the London AfroCentric Community Association.

Dirka lives with her wonderful partner Maurus. Together they enjoy supporting their community and taking long country drives to discover the ghost towns of Ontario. She also enjoys music and dance and plays both box lacrosse and soccer.

As Tommy Douglas said, ‘Courage, my friends; ‘tis not too late to build a better world’. Help build this better world by voting for a fairer, more affordable Canada on election day.