Mr. Naresh Bhardwaj - MLA for Edmonton-Ellerslie

Dear God, We pray for Mr. Naresh Bhardwaj, that you will give him strength and courage as he gives leadership in the constituency of Edmonton - Ellerslie. Be with him as he makes decisions that are important to the people of our province and help him to make the best choices to meet their needs. Bless him and his family with peace and safety. Amen (Grade 6 Student)

Associate Minister of Persons with Disabilities (Reporting to the Minister of Human Services)

Mr. Bhardwaj was elected to his second term as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for Edmonton-Ellerslie on April 23, 2012. He currently serves as Associate Minister of Persons with Disabilities.

In addition to his duties as an MLA, Mr. Bhardwaj was previously the chair of the capital region caucus. He also served on the following committees: the Legislative Review Committee, the Standing Committee on Private Bills, the Standing Committee on Alberta’s Economic Future as well as the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing.

Mr. Bhardwaj moved to Alberta with his family in 1976. He became a journeyman automotive mechanic in 1983 before going back to school and graduating from the U of A with a double major. Naresh then spent the next 18 years working as a teacher in Pincher Creek, Whitecourt, Red Deer, Calgary and Edmonton, teaching predominantly automotives, mathematics and physical education.

Mr. Bhardwaj has been actively involved with Edmonton communities for over 36 years, serving on many associations, establishing Youth Link, a youth employment training program, and coaching soccer at the community league level and for Juventus U-18.

Mr. Bhardwaj was married in 1982 to his wife, Sunita, and has three children: Sarah, Stephen and Neeraj.