10/28/2026
We are excited to officially announce the appointment of the Centre’s new Executive Director, Lily Pourzand.
Lily brings more than 15 years of leadership experience in the gender-based violence sector in Canada, along with a deep commitment to supporting women, newcomers, racialized and vulnerable communities, gender-diverse individuals and their families.
As a first-generation immigrant woman, Lily came to Canada in 1999 in search of political safety and personal freedom after graduating from law school in Tehran, Iran. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Women and Gender Studies from York University, and later obtained her Master of Laws from Osgoode Hall Law School.
Throughout her career, Lily has worked across a range of roles, from frontline services to management, director and executive leadership. She has led diverse programs and services and built collaborative initiatives focused on addressing service gaps, strengthening partnerships and creating meaningful, lasting impact for women and communities.
Lily’s commitment to bridging service gaps, strengthening partnerships, and working to create meaningful impact for women and communities are just some of the reasons the Board is confident that her leadership will build on the Centre’s strong foundation while creating new opportunities for growth, collaboration and continued impact in the community.
At the heart of Lily’s work is a strong belief that women’s personal narratives matter and that meaningful social change begins when individuals feel seen, heard, and empowered,
“Scarborough Women’s Centre has built an incredible legacy of service, advocacy and community leadership over the past 40 years. I am excited to work with the SWC team and community partners to build on that foundation, strengthen the Centre’s impact and help shape a future where every woman and family we serve feels supported, empowered and valued.”
- Lily Pourzand, Incoming Executive Director, Scarborough Women’s Centre
As we welcome Lily, we also take a moment to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary leadership of Lynda Kosowan, who is retiring after more than four decades with Scarborough Women’s Centre.
For over 40 years, Lynda has helped shape SWC into the organization it is today. Her vision, advocacy, compassion and unwavering commitment to women and families have left an enduring mark on the Centre and on the community we serve. Her leadership has been instrumental in building the foundation on which this next chapter will grow.
“It has been an incredible privilege to be part of Scarborough Women’s Centre for more than four decades. I am so proud of what we have built together and deeply grateful to the staff, volunteers, Board members, partners and supporters who have made this work possible. As I prepare for retirement, I am filled with confidence knowing that the Centre is in good hands with Lily and excited to see all that this next chapter will bring.”
- Lynda Kosowan, Outgoing Executive Director, Scarborough Women’s Centre
We are grateful that Lynda will continue to support a thoughtful transition with Lily, helping to ensure continuity for our staff, volunteers and, most importantly, the women, girls and families who rely on Scarborough Women’s Centre.
Please join us in warmly welcoming Lily to Scarborough Women’s Centre, while celebrating and honouring Lynda’s remarkable legacy. We look forward to this exciting new chapter for the Centre and the community we serve.
Board of Directors, Scarborough Women’s Centre
