Stanford Grad and Vancouver's Rising Star Runs for Office with Conservatives,
Vows to Bring Change to Canada
James Yan, a Burnaby native and Stanford University graduate in business administration, is stepping into politics as a candidate for the Conservative Party of Canada in Burnaby Central.
With a background in innovation and economics, Yan is eager to revitalize Canada’s economic landscape and inspire young Canadians to build a brighter future.
Rooted in Hard Work and Middle-Class Values
Born in China, Yan moved to Canada with his parents in the late 1990s in search of better educational opportunities. Raised in Vancouver and Burnaby, he was deeply influenced by his hardworking parents, both IT professionals, who instilled in him the value of perseverance and the importance of higher education.
"I chose to study business because it's a versatile field that allows for both management and entrepreneurship," Yan explains. During his time at Stanford, he hosted the business school's prestigious interview series View From The Top, gaining firsthand insight from global leaders.
Fluent in Mandarin and deeply connected to his cultural heritage, Yan credits his parents for encouraging him to maintain his language skills and cultural roots.
Now 30, Yan works at a publicly traded company in the streaming and entertainment sector. In addition to his professional career, he is committed to giving back to the community and serves on the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation’s Circle of Hope, ensuring critically ill children have access to cutting-edge medical care.
A Vision for Economic Renewal
With experience advising Canada’s Shadow Minister for Innovation, Science, and Industry, Yan is passionate about applying his expertise in economic innovation to public service. "Canada was once known for its stability and opportunities," Yan says. "But in recent years, I’ve seen more young professionals struggling to afford basic living expenses. Many of my peers—over half—are looking for opportunities abroad because they don’t see a future here."
Yan aims to bring his economic and technology background to Parliament, advocating for policies that create high-paying jobs, support entrepreneurs, and retain top talents in Canada.
Tackling the Big Three: Economy, Housing, and Public Safety
Yan’s campaign is focused on three major issues: revitalizing Canada’s economy, making life more affordable, and restoring integrity in government.
He is particularly concerned about the rising cost of living, the struggles young Canadians face in securing well-paying jobs, and Canada’s declining productivity compared to other G7 nations. "I’ve seen talented graduates leave Canada because of unaffordable living costs. We need policies that support economic growth, lower taxes, and help entrepreneurs thrive."
Living in Burnaby’s bustling Brentwood neighborhood, Yan has witnessed firsthand the concerns of local residents, especially livelihood affordability and public safety. "People are struggling with high living costs, particularly when it comes to housing and wages," he says. "At the same time, rising crime is making communities feel less safe. Some seniors even avoid certain shopping areas out of fear. This is why the Conservative Party is committed to restoring safe communities—cracking down on repeat offenders and banning hard drugs in public spaces."
With a focus on economic renewal, affordability, and public safety, James Yan hopes to bring fresh energy and solutions to Parliament, ensuring Canada remains a place where young people and households can thrive.
