Varun Banthia is an emerging leader who demonstrates a sustained commitment to public service and support for vulnerable populations. He has focused his efforts on advancing equity, accountability, and access within public institutions and nonprofit organizations.
As Chair of the Board of PHS Community Services Society, one of the province’s largest providers of supportive housing and harm reduction services, Varun has provided oversight in a complex environment. His work with those facing homelessness, mental health challenges, and substance use disorders has additionally included volunteering at the Dugout Drop-In Centre and on the frontlines of the toxic drug crisis at the Overdose Prevention Society.
Visually impaired since birth, Varun has participated in the City of Vancouver’s Disability Advisory Committee. He has also empowered his young peers through involvement with UBC’s Ch’nook Aboriginal Management Program and research projects at Deloitte amplifying Indigenous youth perspectives.
Professionally, grounded in the belief that transparent and ethical institutions are essential to fair outcomes for those most at risk, Varun has focused on improving integrity and effectiveness in the public sector. After gaining experience at the OECD and the UN, he now supports the whistleblower program at Vancouver’s Office of the Auditor General.
