People of PacifiCan: Anu Kainth
Meet Anu.
Born and raised in Surrey, B.C., she’s our Manager of Public & Parliamentary Affairs and truly one of the kindest people you’ll meet.
After facing a serious health challenge, Anu came away with a deeper sense of gratitude and resilience, something that shines through in the calm, thoughtful way she leads her team.
A passionate foodie who loves spending time with her family, Anu finds joy in exploring new places and experimenting in the kitchen — her recipe for a happy life!
We’re proud to highlight this amazing PacifiCaner who leads with grace and a smile that lifts everyone around her, making a positive impact across our agency.
How did you arrive at PacifiCan?
My career journey began with Transport Canada, where I held various roles and gained valuable experience. Seeking new challenges, I briefly joined Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC), which provided a different perspective on public service operations. It was during this period that I learned about the establishment of PacifiCan. Recognizing the alignment of my skills and interests in an advertisement PacifiCan had posted, I applied and was successful in securing the role. This transition marked a significant step in my career, allowing me to contribute to a dynamic organization dedicated to supporting innovation and community development in the Pacific region.
What interested you about PacifiCan?
I was particularly drawn to PacifiCan because of the opportunity to contribute to the development and success of a new organization. The prospect of being part of a team that is shaping the future of Pacific Canada's economic growth and innovation is both exciting and meaningful. It’s such a pleasure to support the organization's mission and make a positive impact in the region.
What do you do in a typical day?
On a typical day, I focus on a mix of leadership and hands-on work. Beyond managing day-to-day operations— such as checking in with staff, addressing questions, and handling HR and administrative tasks— I’m actively working to develop and strengthen our team. In terms of hands-on work, I am currently managing Order Paper Questions (OPQs) and Ministerial correspondence. Meanwhile, my staff team takes the lead on managing the day-to-day operations related to Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) requests, ensuring smooth and efficient processes.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
What I find most rewarding about my work is the opportunity to support and empower my team. As a manager, it’s incredibly fulfilling to see my team grow, excel in their roles, and take pride in their accomplishments. I also enjoy the collaborative aspect of my job—connecting with colleagues, sharing ideas, and working together to improve processes. Additionally, my role involves building relationships with other regional development agencies and government departments, which allows me to contribute to the broader mission of the organization. While I may not directly shape policy or make high-level decisions, I take pride in providing support that enables the agency to function effectively and achieve its goals.
What is your educational background?
BSc Biology from UBC.
Can you share one of your greatest accomplishments?
There are many things that I am proud of having been a part of over the course of my career. One of my greatest accomplishments is both personal and professional; it was overcoming a significant health challenge and returning to work with renewed purpose. In the summer of 2024, I spent two months in the hospital undiagnosed, which was an incredibly difficult and uncertain time. Eventually, I was diagnosed with Castleman’s Disease, an immune system disorder similar to lymphoma. The diagnosis, while daunting, provided clarity and a path forward. After a year of treatment and recovery, I returned to work with a fresh perspective and a deeper appreciation for resilience and gratitude. This experience has certainly shaped my personal growth.
Can you give us one or two things that you enjoy outside of work?
Outside of work, my life is all about family, adventure, and good food! I’m a proud mom and wife, and spending time with my husband and kids is my absolute joy. When it’s time to unwind, you’ll find me dreaming of travel—whether it’s hopping on a plane or cruising to a new destination. And then there’s my love for food: I’m a total foodie who loves cooking and baking. From experimenting with new recipes to “perfecting” classics, the kitchen is my happy place. It’s all about balancing family, exploration, and a little culinary creativity!
Name 3 songs that are on your Spotify Playlist
Only three songs? That’s tough—but here are the ones that instantly get me wanting to have a dance party:
- Fisher’s Losing It (pure energy!)
- Dom Dolla’s Rhyme Dust (that beat is unstoppable)
- John Summit’s Go Back (still an obsession)
If I hear any of these, the volume goes up, and I’m instantly happy!