DEI Initiative / People / Maura Lawless
Maura Lawless
Maura Lawless joined The 519 as the Executive Director in 2007 and has since expanded the organization’s programs and services, strengthened governance and financial systems, championed organizational development, productive enterprises, and sustainable strategic planning. Together with the leadership team at The 519 and Board, she has positioned the organization as a prominent leading 2SLGBTQ+ community centre advancing important advocacy initiatives and supporting communities and organizations across Canada to focus on equity and justice for 2GBTQ+ communities. Maura has more than 30 years of experience working with marginalized communities, including in frontline, management, and senior leadership positions. Maura is a committed public servant, joining the City of Toronto in 2003 as the Manager of Hostel Operations where she initiated several important conversations about the systemic challenges facing 2SLGBTQ+ communities experiencing homelessness. Maura continues to be inspired by the creativity and resilience of 2 Spirit, queer, and trans communities in Toronto and around the world and is endlessly inspired by the hard work and dedication of The 519 team in advancing this critical work.