#154 - Mat Koohkan - An Immigrant’s Struggle in Canadian Politics

Mat Koohkan was born in Iran, moving to Canada at the age of eight, Mat has already played an instrumental role in political campaigns, including serving as campaign manager and campaign co-chair during the last federal election in Edmonton Griesbach, where the seat was flipped from the NDP to the Conservatives. He now serves as the president of the Conservative Party of Canada electoral district association for Edmonton Griesbach and works full-time as a Public and Government Relations consultant at a major firm in Ontario. He also has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the UofA, supplementing his role in politics. His journey combines resilience, leadership, and a strong sense of responsibility to community and country. Mat’s early interest in healthcare was deeply personal—shaped by the health battles faced by his grandparents. However, the tragic passing of his father in a car accident became a turning point in his life, steering him away from medicine and toward politics. He saw public service as a way to honor his father’s memory by dedicating himself to something bigger than himself: working to shape policies that benefit Canadians from coast to coast. With his psychology background, Mat brings a unique perspective to politics—understanding communities as living systems, recognizing the values and struggles of specific demographics, and using that knowledge to build meaningful political strategy.Moving from Iran to Canada in 2010, Mat experienced firsthand the challenges of starting over in a new country. What began with fear and uncertainty soon transformed into hope through the kindness and generosity of Canadians who welcomed him and his family. That warmth, combined with the struggles of financial instability and adapting to an entirely new culture, instilled in him a deep sense of gratitude and responsibility. He carries with him not only the belief that anything is possible with hard work but also a personal debt to the community and country that supported him. This immigrant experience has become central to his political work, as it allows him to connect with others who often feel unseen or misunderstood, particularly working-class Canadians whose stories echo his own family’s struggles.The loss of his father at a young age forced Mat to grow up quickly. Living on his own from the age of 14, he shouldered responsibilities that most teenagers never face, from working to support himself to navigating life without the cushion of security many of his peers enjoyed. While grief could have become an obstacle, Mat chose to transform it into fuel—a driving force to live a life his father would be proud of. It gave him a strong sense of accountability, empathy for others regardless of belief or background, and a relentless work ethic. His story shows how hardship can forge resilience, leadership, and a vision that stretches far beyond one’s personal struggles.Mat Koohkan’s journey—from an immigrant child uncertain about belonging, to a young man driven by loss, to a political leader committed to building a stronger Canada—is both inspiring and deeply human. His story reflects the themes of responsibility, gratitude, and perseverance, showing us that even in the face of tragedy and challenge, one can find purpose and strength. At the heart of it, Mat’s path is about giving back: honoring his family, serving his community, and shaping a future where Canadians of all walks of life can thrive.KEEP IT LONG TERM!