Justin Trudeau has begun his first full day as Canada’s prime minister-designate after a dramatic federal election that ended the divisive reign of the Conservatives.

The son of former prime minister Pierre Trudeau and leader of the Liberal party won a surprise majority, taking 184 of the 338 seats in parliament with representatives in every province and roughly 40% of the popular vote.

After rousing his party from third in the polls to first place on voting day, Trudeau promised “sunny ways” for all Canadians. “This is what positive politics can do. This is what a positive, hopeful vision, and a platform and a team together can make happen,” he said in his victory speech.

Among his first tasks will be to assemble a cabinet, which he promised in campaigning would contain an equal number of men and women. Trudeau is expected to be sworn in before the G20 summit in Turkey, which starts on 15 November.

His victory speech omitted any mention of his flamboyant father who led Canada from 1968 to 1984, with one brief interruption. “In Canada better is always possible,” a hoarse but jubilant Trudeau told cheering supporters at Liberal headquarters in Montreal’s Queen Elizabeth hotel.

“Canadians from all across this great country sent a clear message tonight, it’s time for a change in this country, my friends, a real change.”