Remembering Kim Novak

May 7, 1985 – May 5, 2024

Kim Novak was a visionary labour unionist, 

a passionate leader, dedicated mother, 

and dear friend to many.

About Kim

Kim Novak believed the heart of UFCW 1518 was its members. 

She was a passionate advocate for social justice who’s first experience in our union was as a Safeway clerk, fighting for what’s right for members. Although she once considered a future in the legal profession, Kim’s job as a summer student for UFCW 1518 showed her the power of organized labour to make a real difference in workers’ lives.

After graduating with a degree in history from the University of British Columbia in 2007, Kim worked at the union in various positions, including communication representative, union representative, director and Secretary-Treasurer. In 2019, the Executive Board unanimously elected her as the youngest, and first female, President of UFCW 1518. Committed to instituting change on a global scale, Kim was also elected to the Vice Presidency of UFCW International. 

Kim was committed to bringing about positive change on issues that matter to members through education, engagement and empowerment. Her vision for the union was to continue building member power in the workplace and for UFCW 1518 to become a leader in human rights and equity, fighting for fairness one member at a time.

We mourn the loss of a visionary who took our movement to new heights and acknowledge the immeasurable impact she made on our members. Together, we honour her memory and recommit to the values she championed throughout her career.

Commemoration

June 6, 2024 | New Westminster, BC

On June 6th 2024, UFCW 1518 members, the labour community, and the community came together to commemorate Kim’s life and her legacy.

Watch the Commemoration Highlights:

Photo Gallery:

Kim Novak’s family and friends, joined by Premier David Eby, Federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, UFCW International President Marc Perrone and hundreds of community members gathered to remember not only the many ways Kim revolutionized our union, but the way she brought kindness, empathy, and solidarity to the forefront of labour cause.

Donations

LEGACY FUND IN HONOUR OF KIM NOVAK

Kim Novak dedicated her entire career to the fight for dignity and respect for all workers; she shattered glass ceilings and made the labour movement a more welcoming place for all, regardless of their identity. 

UFCW 1518 has launched a Legacy Fund in her memory. Contributions to this fund will be committed to the advancement of causes Kim dedicated her life to.