Shachi Kurl: Inspiring Journey of a Pollster, Writer, and Public Speaker Leading Canada’s Public Opinion Landscape

Introduction

Shachi Kurl is a renowned pollster, writer, public speaker, and respected leader in the world of public opinion research. She has carved out a significant place for herself as the President of the Angus Reid Institute, Canada’s leading non-profit organization dedicated to independent research. With an early career rooted in political reporting, Shachi transitioned to become one of the most influential voices in Canadian politics and public discourse.

Her journey reflects both positive achievements and the challenges faced by women of color in leadership positions. Known for her clear, relatable communication style and commitment to non-partisan truth, Shachi Kurl has become a trusted figure in Canadian media, politics, and academia.

Quick Bio

Early Life and Education

Shachi Kurl was born in Canada to parents who immigrated from India, bringing with them a deep respect for education and hard work. Her family eventually settled in Richmond, British Columbia, where she grew up in a culturally diverse environment. These early experiences shaped her understanding of community, inclusion, and identity—values that later influenced her professional journey.

Driven by a passion for storytelling and a deep interest in politics, Shachi pursued higher education at Carleton University. She graduated with a degree in Journalism and Political Science, equipping her with the skills to navigate the complex intersection of politics and media. This education became the foundation for her remarkable career as both a political reporter and later as a public opinion researcher.

Career Beginnings as a Political Reporter

Shachi Kurl began her professional journey as a political reporter, covering the British Columbia Legislature and provincial politics. Her reporting was recognized for its clarity and depth, which made her a trusted voice in Canadian journalism. She worked with respected outlets such as Global TV Vancouver, CBC Radio, and A News Vancouver Island.

During her time as a reporter, Shachi received the prestigious Jack Webster Award for Best TV Reporting, highlighting her excellence and dedication to factual reporting. Her early career laid the groundwork for her future as a writer and public speaker, giving her the tools to communicate complex ideas to a wide audience.

Transition to Public Opinion Research

While Shachi thrived as a journalist, her desire to explore the deeper patterns behind public opinion and social change led her to a new path. She joined forces with Angus Reid, one of Canada’s most respected pollsters, and played a key role in founding the Angus Reid Institute (ARI).

As President of ARI, Shachi oversees all aspects of the organization, including research, partnerships, and strategic planning. Under her leadership, ARI has become a trusted source for independent, non-partisan data on public attitudes toward politics, economics, and social issues. Her work has brought vital insights to policymakers, journalists, and the general public, shaping national conversations with accuracy and integrity.

Academic Contributions and Teaching

In addition to her work at ARI, Shachi Kurl has maintained strong ties to Carleton University, where she once studied. In 2022, she was appointed as an Adjunct Research Professor at the university’s School of Journalism and Communication.

Through this role, Shachi mentors aspiring journalists and researchers, sharing her wealth of experience in media and public opinion research. Her involvement in academia reflects her commitment to nurturing the next generation of storytellers and analysts.

Media Presence and Public Speaking

As a public speaker and media commentator, Shachi Kurl is known for her ability to simplify complex political and social issues. She regularly appears on CBC’s “Power and Politics” and contributes to top publications such as the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Globe and Mail, and Ottawa Citizen.

Her communication style has been described as “kitchen table”—warm, approachable, and rooted in everyday language. This ability to connect with audiences has made her a sought-after voice for panels, conferences, and national debates.

Key Leadership Roles and Achievements

Shachi’s influence extends beyond ARI. She serves as Vice Chair (National) of the Canadian Cancer Society and sits on the boards of the Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation and the CKNW Orphans’ Fund. These roles demonstrate her dedication to public service and social causes.

She has also moderated several high-profile debates:

• In October 2020, she moderated British Columbia’s only televised provincial election debate, bringing clarity and professionalism to a tense political moment.

• In 2021, she moderated the English-language leaders’ debate during Canada’s 44th federal election, a role that placed her at the center of national political discourse.

Awards and Recognition

Shachi Kurl’s achievements have been recognized with numerous honors:

• Jack Webster Award for Best TV Reporting.

• Industry Marvel Award from Darpan Magazine (2021).

• Alumni of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), a U.S. State Department initiative for global leaders.

These accolades reflect her commitment to excellence, transparency, and leadership in her field.

Legacy and Impact

Shachi Kurl’s legacy lies in her unwavering dedication to truth and inclusivity. Through her work as a pollster, writer, and public speaker, she has built bridges between policymakers and the public, ensuring that diverse voices are heard in Canada’s national dialogue.

Her leadership at ARI has positioned the institute as a beacon of non-partisan research. By mentoring future journalists and researchers, she is also shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Shachi’s journey demonstrates the power of resilience and vision in overcoming challenges and driving meaningful change.

Conclusion

Shachi Kurl’s story is one of determination, impact, and influence. From her early days as a political reporter to becoming the President of the Angus Reid Institute and a respected figure at Carleton University, she has navigated both positive milestones and the difficulties of public life.

Her ability to connect with audiences, champion evidence-based research, and promote inclusivity has made her one of Canada’s most influential leaders. As a pollster, writer, and public speaker, Shachi continues to shape the future of public opinion and national discourse, leaving a lasting mark on Canadian society.

FAQs

Q1: Who is Shachi Kurl?
A1: Shachi Kurl is a Canadian pollster, writer, and public speaker who serves as President of the Angus Reid Institute and an Adjunct Research Professor at Carleton University.

Q2: What is the Angus Reid Institute?
A2: It is a non-profit organization focused on independent, non-partisan research on Canadian public opinion and policy issues.

Q3: What awards has Shachi Kurl won?
A3: She has received the Jack Webster Award, the Industry Marvel Award, and is an alumnus of the International Visitor Leadership Program.

Q4: What is her role at Carleton University?
A4: She teaches and mentors students as an Adjunct Research Professor in the School of Journalism and Communication.

Q5: Why is Shachi Kurl influential?
A5: She has shaped public opinion research in Canada, provided leadership in national debates, and inspired future generations through her academic and professional work.

Ceo Weeky