Yuri Fulmer

Yuri Fulmer is a businessman and philanthropist based in Vancouver who came to Canada more than three decades ago from his native Australia. Apart from his business operations, he is the Global Chair of United Way Worldwide and Chancellor of Capilano University. His journey began with a single franchise opportunity, and from there he's relentlessly pursued success while making significant contributions to communities along the way. He has built a significant enterprise, starting with that single A&W franchise and expanding to include dozens of successful restaurant ventures, including Mr. Mike’s Steakhouse and Pizza Hut franchises across Western Canada. In 2010 he founded Fulmer & Company, owning and investing in a diverse array of businesses spanning hospitality, manufacturing, technology, and more. The company has been consistently recognized as one of Canada’s Fastest Growing Private Companies. Beyond the boardroom, Yuri's heart lies in serving his community. For over two decades, he has been deeply involved with United Way, dedicating his time and resources to drive positive change and uplift those in need. His extensive tenure with United Way exemplifies his enduring commitment to making a meaningful impact on society. He is currently serving as the Global Chairman of United Way Worldwide, one of the world’s largest charitable organizations. Furthermore, Yuri actively volunteers his time with various other organizations, including mentoring programs for aspiring entrepreneurs, local environmental conservation initiatives, and efforts to combat homelessness. He is the proud volunteer Co-Chair of the annual Honda Celebration of Light, bringing joy and excitement to communities through this iconic event, the largest each year in Vancouver. In 2020 he was installed as Chancellor of Capilano University, at the time the youngest university Chancellor in Canada. He was reappointed in 2023 to a second term. Yuri's commitment to community extends even further with the establishment of The Fulmer Foundation in 2019. This foundation elevates Fulmer & Company’s community investment, focusing on social issues beyond financial support. Notably, The Fulmer Foundation manages and supports Goodly Foods Society, a social enterprise repurposing surplus produce to create employment opportunities for those in need. As an element of his dedication to Indigenous Truth & Reconciliation, he has been the title sponsor for the past three years of the largest dedicated art prize in Canada for First Nations through the BC Achievement Foundation. He has plans to expand this prize nationally. Yuri's contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has been honoured with a plethora of awards, including the Order of British Columbia, the highest civilian honour in the province, Canada’s Top Forty Under 40, The BC Community Achievement Award, The Spirit of Vancouver Award, The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal, The Joseph and Rosalie Segal Community Vision Award, the Andre Mailhot Award and as one of Business in Vancouver’s Living Legends. He ran for public office in the 2024 provincial election as a candidate for the BC Conservative Party. He lives in West Vancouver with a young son and daughter.

Business, First Nations, Governance, Not-for-Profit, Philanthropy