Austin Lui (he/him) is a second-generation Chinese-Canadian settler on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ / sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) nations (Vancouver, BC). He has dedicated over 15 years to advancing community development in the non-profit sector. A passionate advocate for social change, he has led initiatives such as establishing a low-barrier employment centre and supporting advocacy efforts for poverty reduction.

Austin has worked extensively in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES). His expertise spans facilitation, strategic planning, evaluation, and working closely with equity-deserving groups. Austin is committed to fostering collaboration and believes that working together is the key to addressing society’s most pressing challenges. In addition to his work with community organizations, Austin has experience with municipalities, including his tenure with the City of Vancouver as a social planner. In this role, he partnered with community groups, social enterprises, non-profits, and the private development industry to advance equitable hiring and procurement practices across Vancouver.