International Womxn’s Week | A Conversation With …
A spark of inspiration can generate meaningful change when we
take the time to stir up thoughtful interactions.
In honour of International Womxn’s Week 2020, this project
coupled ambitious students with accomplished & talented leaders
in our community.
From dedicated professors to marketing mavens, we saw
conversations sprouting in a number of industries.
Representing most faculties on our campus, students gained a
deeper understanding of the challenges and successes relating
to fearless champions working in traditional entrepreneurial
roles and those who have adopted an entrepreneurial mindset in
an existing career.
Common Ground:
Amanda Cockburn, Founder & CEO, GEM Conference
Although we have different educational […] and cultural backgrounds, we both share the common value of wanting to provide a positive space and platform for our peers to connect authentically and to lift up the voices of others.
Sally Adam, Student, Biomedical Mechanical Engineering
Although engineering and event production are very different […] I realized that, in reality, both fields aim to create great experiences for people. [A] refreshing reminder that no matter the product or the event to be designed, the client’s perspective always has to be taken into account.
Common Ground:
Veronica Farmer, Director, Partnerships and Commercialization
Although I feel the young talent of today are much more focused and aware of where and what they want to do […] understanding that your path may not be a linear line but made up of zigs and zags to get you to a place where you can leverage your experience and skills fully.
Self-Care:
Priya Aduvala, Student, Bachelor of Commerce with a specialization in Marketing
We discussed various ways each of us practice self-care and its importance in our everyday life in order to ensure that we are able to stay on track with our
regular day-to-day. I think it is great to see that we each value this so much, despite the fact that we are working / studying in different sectors.
Well-being:
Jess Poon, Co-Founder, DiscoverHER Project
It’s important to set clear expectations and healthy boundaries early on with a client or industry partner so that everybody is on the same page. Whether that be at a kick-off meeting, in a written contract, or during onboarding, communicate in detail as to what services you are offering, how you intend on doing so, and the desired end results.
Values:
Andrea Herscovich, Honours BSc with Specialization in Computer Science
The importance of being intentional about setting goals and working towards achieving them. In the context of careers, we discussed how we chose our specific fields and the importance of choosing to work with people whose values align with your own.
Success:
Isabelle Perreault, President and Founder, Differly
The best way to predict your future is to create it! There is no road map… just a compass. Create, start and the path will become clear.
Adaptability:
Eve Staszczyszyn, Student, International Development and Globalization with a Minor in Management
Isabelle is an expert when it comes to digital transformation. This key piece of strategy is actually one which applies to sectors worldwide. No matter the industry, businesses must consider the rapidly changing tech realities and adapt if they want to stay competitive.
Life-long Learning:
Josée Ann Rainville, Business Operations Lead, Wealth Management
Life-long learning is key! Always continue to learn new things and challenge yourself. Professional development can help you get out of a career “rut” and lacking motivation, you must find a way to continue to challenge yourself.
Experience:
Sarah Anne Brazeau, Student, Honours Bachelor of Health Sciences
Josée Ann recommended I gain as much experience as possible, early in my career, while leveraging my vision, perspective, and knowledge within an organisation or company, etc.
Values:
Robin McLeod, Student, Major in Indigenous studies with a Minor in Women’s Studies
Follow your heart, not what is supposed to be done. You can spend all the time in the world doing something you don’t like but what is important is to do the things that you are passionate about and align with your values.
*This feature was published in honour of the 2020 International Womxn’s Week.
