“People in Columbia-Kootenay-Southern Rockies work hard, but the cost of living keeps rising,” says Kallee. “Local businesses are struggling, and families are falling behind. As a proud New Democrat, I will fight to make life better for people, deliver relief from the high cost of living, build more truly affordable housing and defend access to the health care services people depend upon."

Growing up in the West Kootenays, Kallee learned from an early age that the environment is central to life in the region. “Our rivers, lakes, and forests are the heartbeat of our communities,” she says. “I will advocate for stronger protections, monitoring and conservation efforts to preserve local ecosystems for generations to come.”

As Executive Director of the West Kootenay Regional Arts Council, Kallee supports cultural development across the Columbia Basin. Kallee also consults for cultural nonprofits and provides pro bono facilitation for local organizations. She is currently Board Chair for the Dance West Network, and an inaugural board member of the Black & Rural Arts and Culture Society.

“The cultural life of the Kootenays is vibrant and each community is unique,” says Kallee. “As someone who collaborates with organizations and individuals in both the East and West Kootenays, I understand and appreciate the creativity, vibrancy, and entrepreneurial spirit of the people who live here.”

Kallee has been involved in grassroots politics across Canada for 15 years, serving first as Co-President of NDP McGill and later as a member of the riding association executive in Jack Layton’s former riding of Toronto—Danforth. “I believe in policies that have the potential to improve the well-being and livelihoods of all Canadians. Investing in affordable housing, green energy, and the care economy benefits everyone—without leaving our most vulnerable behind,” she says.

A constant thread in Kallee's professional life is her commitment to federal policy development. As a member of Imagine Canada's public policy team, she helped the organization strengthen the charitable sector in Canada. Her research, outreach, and advocacy supported the development of federal policy recommendations and influenced program delivery.

In her free time, Kallee enjoys exploring the riding with her husband, from Creston’s vineyards to Kootenay hiking trails and local arts spaces. She has volunteered as a co-host on Kootenay Co-op Radio and is an active member of St. Saviour’s Pro-Cathedral, which serves Nelson’s most vulnerable. Kallee has a BA in Political Science and English from McGill University and an MA in Theatre & Performance Studies from York University.