Meet Erin Seeley, RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards Social Change — Regional Impact Finalist

Erin Seeley is the CEO of YWCA Metro Vancouver, one of BC’s largest multi-service charities serving women, families, and allies across 42 locations. Under her leadership, the YWCA offers more than 80 programs, ranging from transitional and permanent housing to violence prevention, employment services, mentorship, and early childhood education. The organization also operates several thriving social enterprises, including a 220-room hotel, a health and fitness centre, and five childcare centres.

With more than 20 years of experience in governance, strategic planning, policy, and community engagement, Erin has built her career at the intersection of public service and social impact. She previously served as Senior Vice President at BC Financial Services Authority and as CEO of the Real Estate Council of BC, overseeing consumer protection and professional regulation.

Now a 2025 RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards finalist, Erin continues to combine that experience with a deep commitment to equity, ensuring YWCA Metro Vancouver expands its reach and impact across the region. Meet Erin and discover how she is driving meaningful change in BC communities.

I knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur when…

During the pandemic, I was struck by how income inequality and gender influenced health outcomes, and I felt the urgency to make a greater difference in addressing social justice and equity issues. I spent many years in public service providing fearless policy advice, and I wanted the chance to work more closely with women and families delivering direct programs and services. As an organization with deep roots in the community that embraces innovation through social enterprises, I have always admired the YWCA, and jumped at the chance to lead with bold action.

Entrepreneurship is made for me because…

I love to blaze new trails and take risks to solve problems collaboratively. What’s wonderful about being an entrepreneur at the YWCA is that we tackle extremely challenging social issues from the heart, and we don’t let our egos get in the way of progress.

The impact I hope to make through my work is…

To demonstrate how the YWCA, working in partnership across the social profit sector, has the capacity and expertise to address social problems with an entrepreneurial mindset. We achieve this by combining creativity, empathy, and efficiency, leveraging various funding sources to create a hub of integrated services that enhances the well-being of women, gender-diverse individuals, and families. We share our frontline experience in advocacy, pushing for policy and systems change that will improve individual and collective outcomes. 

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned on my entrepreneurial journey is…

Leadership is not a title; it’s about how you show up every day with your actions and behaviours. I used to think that I couldn’t really be a leader unless I had the title and the paycheque. Looking back, I have seen how leadership has always been central to my career, as I have had the self-confidence to speak up for my values and the passion to support others who may not have been able to speak up for themselves. 

My proudest accomplishment is…

Having a close circle of family and friends. I draw my strength and inspiration from being a proud mom, aunty, sister, daughter, partner, and friend. As I’ve navigated my career and taken on more challenging leadership roles, my circle has become even more important for comfort, support and laughter. 

The biggest risk I took that paid off was…

Leaving the public service to pursue my passion for social purpose. I was very fortunate to have had such a rewarding and varied career in the provincial government. While I always found it to be intellectually challenging and important work, I was often frustrated by the slow pace and risk aversion of bureaucracy. I was unsure whether my leadership abilities and skills would translate to an entrepreneurial role in the non-profit sector. It has been such a rewarding move—I get to tackle big challenges surrounded by wonderful colleagues, and it is an absolute privilege to work alongside so many women and families.

The best advice I’ve received as an entrepreneur was…

There is a Latin phrase that was shared with me by another entrepreneur: “festina lente,” meaning to make haste slowly. This really resonates because I often feel the tension of balancing urgency with deliberate intention.

I surprise people when I tell them…

That I am becoming more introverted. I am very comfortable speaking to large groups, and I love the energy of meeting new people and being together in community. However, I increasingly find comfort in solitude to reflect and recharge. 

If I had an extra hour in the day, I would use it to…

Go for a longer walk, have an extended workout, or just enjoy that extra cup of coffee. I love lazy mornings where I can enjoy waking up slowly and exercising before starting my day. 

The future excites me because…

I see the power of how gender equity is changing the world—not only in business and politics, where gender-diverse leadership is critical, but also in prioritizing care for the community and the environment. When we create spaces for people with diverse identities and lived experiences to thrive, we can achieve better outcomes.

Connect with Erin Seeley on LinkedIn.