For more than two decades, Joel Swaan has dedicated his career to teaching, leadership, and advocacy in education. He graduated in 2003 from the University of Saskatchewan from the combined music education program and has since taught from early to middle years, primarily band and French. Swaan says he had some great educators throughout childhood who inspired him to teach. “Back in Grade 3 I did a half an hour lesson where I taught – no – lectured the class on using codes as a method of communication, and that was the beginning of the end,” he laughs. “I knew I wanted to teach.” His path has taken him from classrooms in Saskatoon to Winkler, Manitoba, where he has spent the last 14 years inspiring students and supporting colleagues.
Swaan’s move from Saskatchewan to Manitoba was both personal and professional. After marrying his wife, Sherie, who grew up in Winkler, the couple chose to settle near her family. What he found was not only a welcoming community but also new opportunities to serve his profession. Over time, Swaan became involved in the Garden Valley Teachers’ Association, holding positions from school representative to president. His passion for advocacy and collaboration led him to serving as member-at-large on the Provincial Executive, and since June, as vice-president of The Manitoba Teachers’ Society.
Swaan reports that working alongside President Lillian Klausen has been “excellent”. The two share a common philosophy grounded in teamwork and service to members. “Lillian listens and has no ego about the role whatsoever. We can have good conversations and make decisions together,” he says, adding that everyone on the Provincial Executive wants the best for members and has unified thinking around what that looks like.
As vice-president, Swaan is driven by a commitment to transparency, inclusion, and trust. From policy modernization to member engagement, he’s focusing on ensuring that every teacher feels supported and represented. “When members see that MTS is doing the work, they can focus on what they do best – teaching,” he explains. “That’s what drives me. If others feel confident that I’ve got it handled, they can be the best teachers they can be in their classrooms.”
For members who feel pulled to union work, Swaan recommends getting involved with their local teachers’ association. “Being a part of your Local can be really empowering. Locals are trying to make sure that members feel supported where they are and not just raise the profession but raise up individual teachers. Nobody knows your situation or the climate you teach in better than your Local.”
Swaan, his wife, their three children, and the family’s two cats and dogs have recently moved to Winnipeg from Morden. In his spare time, Swaan enjoys performing in musical theatre, choirs, and concert bands. He is also actively involved as a leader with Scouts Canada and is a LEGO enthusiast.
