About Walter

Walter’s story is one of transformation through hardship and hope. Born in Guatemala amid a turbulent civil war, he faced personal loss and displacement from an early age—experiencing the heartbreak of losing his brother and living in constant conflict. To secure his safety, his courageous parents sent him to North America as a refugee claimant. In Ontario, Walter faced the stark realities of homelessness and the challenges of living with a learning disability. Yet, with the generosity and solidarity of the local community inspiring him, he transformed his life through hard work and unwavering faith. Today, Walter stands as a successful civil servant, top of his MBA class (with honors and as salutatorian), a Doctoral candidate in Social Sciences, and a recipient of multiple scholarships—including the highly coveted Provincial Scholarship.

As Ward 25 embarks on a new chapter—especially with former Councilor Jennifer McKelvie transitioning to her role as MP—Walter’s campaign is founded on the urgent need for continuity in dedicated advocacy. He believes that community well-being and public office are among the greatest responsibilities one can bear. Walter is not here to promise sweeping transformations overnight but to serve as a consistent, passionate voice for Scarborough-Rouge Park, ensuring that the hard-won gains of the past are both preserved and advanced during this period of transition.

Walter’s unique background as an Afro-Indigenous Guatemalan, combined with his extensive public service and private sector experience, has ingrained in him the highest standards of fairness, transparency, and accountability. He believes every institution—from schools to city hall—should champion equity and inclusion. In Ward 25, discussions about racial and socioeconomic equity are central. Walter will work alongside local organizations and community leaders to address longstanding challenges, firmly opposing unwarranted salary increases for councillors while advocating for robust accountability in public fund management and the safeguarding of inclusive, safe community spaces.

With over a decade of service in the Canadian federal government in various professional capacities—and valuable experience from the private sector in banking and investments—Walter has proven that advocacy is more than just promises; it’s a steadfast commitment. His academic achievements, from excelling in his MBA program to pursuing a PhD addressing critical community issues, underscore his dedication to using education and research as catalysts for positive change. Additionally, through his YouTube channel, Democracy Matters!, Walter shares personal stories and mini-documentaries to elevate conversations on learning disabilities and democracy—garnering over 500K views and a dedicated following. In Scarborough-Rouge Park—which encompasses neighborhoods like Centennial, Highland Creek, Malvern, Morningside Heights, West Rouge, and Port Union—Walter is ready to listen, learn, and lead.

This campaign isn’t about flashy promises or quick fixes—it’s about providing steadfast, accountable representation during a time of important change. Walter is committed to ensuring that every decision at city hall reflects the best interests of Ward 25. With his focus on continuous advocacy, a refusal to indulge self-serving practices, and an unwavering commitment to every constituent’s voice, Walter invites you to join him in building a future that is as inclusive and accountable as it is hopeful.