Lily Cheng is a long-time Willowdale resident and dedicated community builder who has spent more than a decade bringing neighbours together in moments of crisis, healing, and collective action. She founded North York Moms, co-founded We Love Willowdale in the aftermath of the Yonge Street tragedy, co-founded a local food bank with a holistic approach to care, and led the Willowdale COVID Response Network to support vulnerable residents. At City Hall, Lily serves as the Mayor’s Champion to Eradicate Intimate Partner Violence and Gender-Based Violence. Her top priority is empowering residents to participate in local democracy. She keeps the community engaged through twice-weekly newsletters, regular surveys, and accessible events, including her Spaghetti Town Halls and co-hosting regular community events, creating space for open dialogue and ensuring residents’ voices shape decisions. Lily champions thoughtful planning and innovation, advancing participatory budgeting across Willowdale and securing a future Willowdale Intercultural Hub. Her leadership is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to listening, because a stronger community starts with engaged residents.