Frances Lankin is a strong advocate for social justice and human rights. In her early career as a union leader, she fought for the rights of women in the workplace by promoting pay equity, paid maternity leave and better access to childcare. After serving as a provincial cabinet minister, she steered United Way Toronto, where she introduced strategic measures to improve social conditions in at-risk neighbourhoods. She is highly regarded for bringing together social service agencies, governments and the private sector to build stronger, healthier communities.