Our Board of directors

Robin has served as the Co-chair on the Board of Directors. Robin is very active in the community raising awareness on the issue of child apprehension, particularly Indigenous children.

Bita is the Executive Strategy Officer of the British Columbia College Pension Plan, where she provides strategic advice to the College Pension Board of Trustees.

Bita’s career spans over 35 years providing consulting advice to public and private sector organizations on retirement and employee benefits programs. Prior to joining the College Pension Plan, Bita was a Partner at a major international consulting firm.

Bita holds a Master of Science degree in mathematics from the University of British Columbia and is a Fellow of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries and the Society of Actuaries, as well as a Certified Financial Planner.

Debbie is a long-time member of the Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre. Debbie has been on the Board for many years. In addition, Debbie supports DEWC as a long-term volunteer.

Andrea is the Policy Director at the Union of BC Indian Chiefs (UBCIC), and has been involved in social justice, advocacy and harm reduction work for more than 20 years. She has been on the DEWC board for 6 years and is honoured to be able to support DEWC in any way.

Sylvia has worked in and around Vancouver’s DTES since 2003 as an advocate, counsellor, woman’s support, and peer worker. Sylvia has been on DEWC’s board for over a year, and she contributes to the community with her personal and work experience.

Marlene has been very active advocating around issues for women including with the MMIWG Inquiry. Marlene has been part of the board since 2021, and has also contributed to Red Women Rising.

Shannon's career achievements exemplify a deep commitment to driving positive change and business results. She is passionate about ensuring access to shelter and basic needs for all individuals. She believes that effective marketing and communications are pivotal in creating awareness, rallying support, and driving action to address this critical issue.

As Volunteer Board Director at the Downtown Eastside Women's Centre in Vancouver, Shannon is poised to leverage her expertise to advance the center's mission and vision. With her proven history of collaborative storytelling and fundraising, she is dedicated to empowering marginalized women and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can find shelter, support, and the resources they need to thrive with dignity and compassion.

[bio coming soon]

Laura is a long-time Vancouver resident and settler on unceded Coast Salish territory. She is a parent, partner, cyclist, yoga practitioner, and amateur gardener who draws inspiration and sustenance from relationships with people and the natural world. Laura works as human rights lawyer at the Community Legal Assistance Society, where she assists clients fighting for accountability for violations of their human rights, and educates employers, landlords, and service providers about their legal obligations under human rights law. She shares DEWC's mission to provide a safe and inclusive space where every woman's strengths and experiences are valued and respected.