Ryan Lacanilao
Ryan Lacanilao is the Coordinator and Economist for the Alberta Living Wage Network. He guides the living wage calculations, manages the certification program, and leads the Network’s projects. Before shifting focus to the nonprofit sector, he spent a decade in the public service as a policy researcher, analyst, and advisor, where he specialized in principles-focused evaluation, intersectional analysis, and systemic design. He credits his affinity for data analysis to his experience completing his master's thesis as part of the University of Alberta's Agricultural and Resource Economics program. Ryan is also a producer and reporter for CJSR’s What’s the Tsismis?, a national award-winning podcast about Filipino/a/x identity in Edmonton.
“The ripple effects of a living wage are far reaching and profound. When folks make a living wage, they have less stress, can buy healthier food, and have more time to spend with loved ones. When governments introduce policies that help people make ends meet, it eases the strain on the health care system and community services. When employers pay a living wage, they get more productive employees who want to stick around. And when people can afford to participate in their community, they’re more likely to plant roots, and local businesses benefit from the increased spending. A living wage means happier people, thriving businesses, and a vibrant community!”