About Pooneh
For more than three decades, Pooneh has created transitional housing programs for the most vulnerable individuals in both the public and private sectors. Her work includes treatment, rehabilitation and skills training. She has provided paths to independence for many by creating safe, stable housing environments.
As a business owner, Pooneh understands real-world challenges including job creation and team building. She knows how to create opportunities and will bring that entrepreneurial, solutions-driven mindset to City Council.
A New Kind of Leadership
Pooneh is committed to working hard every single day for the people of Vancouver. She believes that great solutions come from listening to every voice in the community.
“When we work together, we can create real, lasting change that reflects our shared values and goals.” She’s ready to fight for a safer, stronger, cleaner Vancouver—and for the people who call it home.
Let’s build a better Vancouver—together.
Addressing Homelessness
Firm Boundaries,
Compassionate Solutions
Pooneh has experienced poverty and believes homelessness is one of Vancouver’s most pressing challenges—demanding both compassionate and accountable solutions. Because unsheltered street living is unsafe for everyone, she will advocate for a ban on urban camping but recognizes that enforcement alone is not the answer.
She will lead efforts to:
- Expand transitional housing
- Develop public-private partnerships
- Invest in outreach, recovery services, and life-skills programs
Victim Advocacy & Justice Reform
Turning Pain Into Purpose
In 1989, Pooneh’s mother was murdered—and her father was wrongfully convicted. Then, just a college student, Pooneh became her younger brother’s guardian. For more than 30 years, she worked to ensure her mother’s true killer was held accountable.
This lifelong battle made Pooneh a formidable advocate for victims’ rights, criminal justice reform, and families failed by the system. While working on her mother’s case, she saw firsthand how detectives had to do their best with limited resources due to underfunding. She also witnessed how under-resourced investigations and systemic breakdowns robbed people of justice and caused victims to feel unheard.
Pooneh believes public safety is a shared responsibility—one that begins with ensuring law enforcement has the training and support needed to serve the community effectively and compassionately.
On City Council, Pooneh will:
- Support funding for law enforcement and emergency services
- Promote safety by design through improving lighting, walkability and community spaces
- Help build trust between residents and police and hold police accountable for misconduct
Economic Opportunity
Building a Stronger Future
Pooneh knows that tax increases are often passed onto working families and consumers, driving up the cost of everyday goods. She believes significant responsibility comes with managing taxpayer dollars and will ensure that public funds are used efficiently, transparently, and for the benefit of the entire community.
As a business owner, she’s seen firsthand how policy can help—or hinder—economic growth. She believes Vancouver should be a city that empowers its people to build and create a strong economy.
On City Council, Pooneh will:
- Support responsible policies that avoid unnecessary tax burdens
- Promote job creation and local workforce development
- Create an environment for business startups and expansions to thrive in Vancouver