Mississauga Names Lisa Boyce-Gonsalves as New Director of Recreation and Culture

MISSISSAUGA — The City of Mississauga has appointed longtime municipal leader Lisa Boyce-Gonsalves as its new Director of Recreation and Culture, following a competitive recruitment process. Boyce-Gonsalves assumed the role on December 1, marking a significant leadership transition within one of the city’s most community-facing divisions.

The appointment positions Boyce-Gonsalves at the helm of a portfolio that delivers recreation and cultural programs, oversees major event venues, and manages dozens of facilities that form the backbone of Mississauga’s community life.

A Leadership Role Spanning City-Wide Recreation and Culture

In her new capacity, Boyce-Gonsalves will report to the Commissioner of Community Services and guide the delivery of recreation and cultural services across Mississauga. Her responsibilities include:

• Overseeing operations of community centres, arenas, cultural hubs, golf courses, theatres, museums and signature spaces such as Mississauga Celebration Square, the Paramount Fine Foods Centre, and the Living Arts Centre.

• Managing major event operations, facility rentals, and banquet and food services.

• Leading community and neighbourhood development initiatives that support engagement, inclusion and resident well-being.

Boyce-Gonsalves has served as Acting Director since January 2025. Her nearly 20-year career with the City includes senior roles as Senior Manager of Program Delivery and Manager of Community Programs, where she advanced workforce development, budget oversight and program innovation.

Championing Inclusion and Healthy Communities

A central contributor to Mississauga’s first Healthy City Strategy, Boyce-Gonsalves helped expand participation in recreation and cultural programming for persons with disabilities and equity-deserving communities. Through partnerships with schools, nonprofits and healthcare organizations, she also strengthened physical literacy and wellness initiatives city-wide.

Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University), an Honours Diploma in Child and Youth Work from Humber College, and certifications in Parks and Recreation Management, High Five Healthy Child Development, and affiliated credentials.

City Leadership Welcomes Appointment

Commissioner of Community Services Raj Sheth praised the appointment, stating:

“I’m pleased to welcome Lisa to the role of Director of Recreation and Culture. She brings extensive experience and a proven track record of leadership. In this role, Lisa will apply her knowledge and expertise to enhance the City’s recreation and cultural programs and services, while providing effective community development and strategic advice to Council, senior leadership and staff.”

Boyce-Gonsalves expressed enthusiasm for the work ahead:

“I am proud to work for the City of Mississauga and remain committed to delivering programs and services that contribute to our residents’ high quality of life. I look forward to collaborating with Recreation and Culture staff, the City’s Leadership team and working closely with Mayor and Council.”

Mississauga continues to expand its recreation and cultural offerings as residents seek more inclusive and accessible community programming across the city.

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