Scaling Impact While Staying Human With Donna-Lynn Rosa, CEO, Atira Women's Resource Society
Description
What does it take to scale impact without losing sight of humanity? In this Women’s History Month conversation, Douglas Nelson speaks with Donna-Lynn Rosa, CEO of Atira Women’s Resource Society, about leading with humility, compassion, and hope. From one house four decades ago to more than 2,500 supportive housing spaces today, Atira has become British Columbia’s largest provider of housing for marginalized women, children, and gender-diverse individuals fleeing violence. Donna-Lynn shares the organization’s person-centered approach—where nearly 80% of staff bring lived experience—and its dual focus on providing immediate services and driving systemic change. She also reflects on her leadership philosophy, showing how pausing, listening, and modeling wellness are key to sustaining both people and mission while tackling gender-based violence and advocating for a safer future.
United States
