Marjan Kasirlou, an accomplished healthcare professional and advocate, embodies a deep belief in the transformative potential of politics as a force for positive change. In 2022, she courageously stepped into the political arena as an Ontario Liberal party candidate for Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill in the 2022 provincial general election.
Marjan’s academic achievements are a testament to her commitment to excellence. She stands as the recipient of the prestigious June Awrey Award in leadership and holds a distinguished place on the Dean’s Honour Roll at York University. Her educational qualifications include two nursing degrees, an MBA, and certification as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt.
As a registered nurse with a distinguished leadership background,She dedicated to the nursing profession extends beyond her clinical duties. She has actively contributed to the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) in various capacities. Since June 2021, she has served as a member of the Provincial Resolution Committee, demonstrating her commitment to shaping healthcare policy. Furthermore, Marjan has assumed leadership roles, including her position as the York East Chapter President since October 2022 and her previous role as the Communication Executive Network Officer for Region 7 from 2019 to 2021.
Marjan firmly believes that all policies should be regarded as health policies. Her advocacy centers on urging politicians to consider the social determinants of health in all aspects of policymaking. She ardently champions equitable access to medical care, healthcare, and social services, with a particular emphasis on the most vulnerable populations. Her advocacy portfolio extends to encompass healthcare reform, including initiatives to transform long-term care homes, establish Pharmacare and dental care programs, advocate for tax fairness, enhance harm reduction services, reduce homelessness and violence, strengthen income security, and protect the environment.
With a distinguished career spanning over two decades in nursing, pharmaceuticals, education, and leadership, Marjan Kasirlou has become a trusted professional in her field. Her impactful work includes developing a resolution focused on building healthy public policies to combat loneliness among older adults. This resolution, which she championed, was successfully adopted at the RNAO 2019 Annual General Meeting. As a direct result of her efforts and the collaborative advocacy of the RNAO, Ontario’s Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility allocated $14.1 million to support over 300 Seniors Active Living Centre Programs across the province, greatly benefiting communities and senior citizens.
Marjan Kasirlou’s unwavering commitment to healthcare, advocacy for inclusive policies, and dedication to community well-being exemplify her role as a transformative force within healthcare and the broader political landscape.