I’m someone who truly comes alive in the great outdoors of British Columbia. My summers are spent hiking trails, kayaking, and swimming in lakes, connecting deeply with the environment I strive to protect. Beyond my outdoor adventures, I’m passionate about shaping a sustainable future through impact investing and ESG criteria. Off the beaten path, I channel my creativity into crafting bracelets for my friends and family and coaching tennis to children aged 6-14 during the summer months. My journey is one of balancing personal passions with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and social impact.

What is your personal definition of sustainability? 

In my hometown of Victoria, BC, sustainability feels personal. It’s the crisp air, the whisper of the rainforest, and the endless ocean that guide my every choice. It’s understanding that every action – from refusing a plastic bag to biking under the towering Douglas Fir trees – matters. Here, sustainability isn’t just about caring for the environment; it’s a way of life that honors the bond between us and the natural world. It’s a commitment to protect and cherish our wild surroundings, ensuring they thrive for generations. To me, sustainability means living with intention, rooted deeply in the love for my home.

What role do you see sustainability playing in your professional career?

Wishing to pursue a career in impact investing, sustainability is not just a professional interest but a personal commitment that aligns with my strong background in finance. I view sustainability as the backbone of ethical investing, guiding my ambition to direct capital towards ventures that promise not only financial returns but also societal and environmental benefits. This personal drive stems from a brief that financial expertise should contribute to a sustainable future, blending economic success with positive global impact.  

In my envisioned career, I aim to leverage investments to support sustainable development, focusing on renewable energy, social inclusion, and strong governance. This approach reflects my understanding that true value creation encompasses more than just profit – it’s about fostering a healthier planet and more equitable societies. This certificate will equip me with the nuanced understanding necessary to lead with impact, ensuring my financial decisions promote long-term sustainability.  

Integrating sustainability deeply into my work is how I plan to make a difference, using finance as a tool for positive change. This journey is not just about building a successful career but fulfilling a personal mission to contribute to a more sustainable and just world.

What sustainability projects have you been engaged in?

In my commitment to sustainability, I have actively participated in various initiatives through the Ivey Social Impact Club, where my involvement has spanned in initiatives such as participating in garbage cleanup activities and educational events. These efforts not only helped in beautifying the surroundings but also in instilling a sense of environmental responsibility among peers. My role as a 2nd-year representative for the Geography People’s Society allowed me to engage in dialogues and projects focused on environmental conservation, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices within our community.  

A pivotal experience was my tenure on the executive team of my high school’s sustainability club, the “Green Team.” Here, I worked with my peers to establish a campus garden, a project that served dual purposes: providing a hands-on experience about sustainable agriculture and contributing to our school’s green footprint. This initiative was complemented by my efforts in organizing educational sessions about preserving biodiversity, aiming to raise awareness about the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the critical role of biodiversity in maintaining ecological balance.  

Through these experiences, I have developed a deep understanding of and commitment to sustainability, honed my leadership and project management skills, and fostered a collaborative spirit among my peers towards achieving a more sustainable future.

Please list any sustainability-related interests you want to explore during the certificate. 

• Impact Investing & Sustainable Finance
• Biodiversity Conservation
• Sustainable Urban Planning