About Karina

I was born in Durban, South Africa, and my family left apartheid when I was just two months old, seeking the safety, freedom, and opportunity that Canada offered. We settled in Slave Lake, Alberta, where I grew up learning the values of hard work, personal responsibility, and service to others.

After university, I worked as a laboratory technician in the forestry industry before spending 13 years managing an oilfield service company. These experiences gave me a deep appreciation and, firsthand experience with Alberta's resource industries, entrepreneurship, and the challenges faced by small businesses.

I also spent more than a decade working for a local non-profit adult learning organization, helping adults build new skills and bringing our community together through community events and charitable initiatives.

In 2004, I was elected Mayor of the Town of Slave Lake and served three consecutive terms. During the devastating 2011 Slave Lake wildfire, I worked collaboratively with municipal, provincial, and First Nations partners to help our region recover and rebuild stronger and more resilient.

After nine years in public office, I chose a new challenge and went to medical school at the University of Calgary. I later completed a rural family medicine residency at the University of British Columbia's Kelowna program.

Today, I serve Albertans as a family physician in Calgary, where I have been caring for patients and families for the past eight years.

Outside of work, I love travelling, exploring different cultures, visiting museums, discovering great food, spending time in nature, and challenging myself on mountain treks. At home, I treasure time with close family and friends, and my furry companion, Tusker — sharing good food, laughter, and thoughtful conversations.