Austin Lui is a second-generation Chinese-Canadian settler who brings a deeply collaborative and values-driven approach to advancing social change. His work is shaped by years of experience in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside and an enduring commitment to equity. Austin sees the potential of collective action and is motivated by the belief that we can build a more just society by working together.

Over the past 15 years, Austin has led a wide range of community development initiatives in the non-profit and public sectors. He has worked directly with equity-deserving communities to design and deliver programs that center lived experience — from founding a low-barrier employment centre to championing policies related to equity. In his previous role as a social planner with the City of Vancouver, Austin helped develop and implement equitable hiring and procurement policies and practices.

At Roots & Rivers, he brings this wealth of experience to co-design thoughtful and impactful processes that center community voice and foster collaboration. His expertise spans strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, facilitation, and evaluation. He brings compassion and an equity-lens to all his work, and always strives to bring forward voices that are often unheard.

Outside of work, he enjoys being outside with his family, playing music, and climbing.