#TeamTuesday: Shawna Lewkowitz

Get to know the members of the Urban League Board better with our weekly #TeamTuesday features! This week we are happy to introduce you to Shawna Lewkowitz!

About Shawna Lewkowitz

Shawna’s work is grounded in community, equity and cities. She has spent over 25 years working in non-profits and public service with a focus on gender, community development and transformative education. She has been on the Board of the Urban League of London for the past five years, currently in the role as Past President. The Urban League’s aim is to build vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable neighbourhoods where everyone belongs. Shawna currently teaches and is the Community Based Learning Coordinator in Social Justice and Peace Studies at King’s University College and is a past NDP federal candidate. She received a Canada 150 and a Leading Women, Leading Girls award for her extensive work in community. Shawna is currently a PhD student at Western Ontario in the Human Environments Analysis Lab (HEAL) in the department of Geography and Environment, where she is researching gendered public spaces in Canada. She is also the proud mother of two teenage daughters, partner to Michael and you will often find her on a run, on her bike or in the woods.

When did you first join the Urban League?

6 years ago

What role do you currently have?

Past President

Have you ever held any other roles?

Vice President and President

Why did you join the Urban League as a Board Member?

The way we plan our cities and support our neighbourhoods impacts everyone's quality of life and wellbeing. I wanted to be part of a group of people who were part of building an equitable and sustainable city for all.

What Urban League advocacy focuses are you most passionate about?

Issues around equity and anti-oppression and the way these are linked to planning decisions and municipal policy. Ensuring the city is using an anti-oppression analysis in its decision-making is one of the most important advocacy pieces the ULL has been a part of in my opinion and will have long last impacts

Are you currently, or have you ever been, associated with any neighbourhood or community groups within London? If so, which ones?

I have been loosely involved in Old South Community Organization but more as an enthusiastic community member than an official role. I was also the founder of Women & Politics, a past ULL member.