What is your proudest accomplishment as a leader? 

One of my proudest accomplishments as a leader occurred when I spearheaded a mentorship program within my organization. At the time, we faced challenges with employee engagement and retention, particularly among younger team members who felt disconnected from the company’s vision.

Recognizing the need for a more supportive environment, I proposed a structured mentorship initiative that paired seasoned professionals with emerging talent. My goal was to create a culture of learning and connection, where knowledge could be shared, and relationships could flourish.

I worked closely with both mentors and mentees to design a program that emphasized personal and professional growth. We organized workshops, networking events, and regular check-ins to ensure that everyone felt supported throughout the process. The results were remarkable. Not only did we see increased engagement and satisfaction among participants, but the program also fostered a sense of belonging and purpose across the organization.

The most rewarding aspect was witnessing the transformation in both mentors and mentees. Relationships blossomed, skills developed, and a new generation of leaders began to emerge. This experience reinforced my belief that effective leadership is about empowering others and cultivating a culture of growth. It’s an accomplishment that continues to inspire me as I strive to create environments where everyone can thrive.

What is the one piece of advice you’d give to other aspiring women leaders?

Embrace your unique voice and perspective. As an aspiring woman leader, it’s essential to be confident in your abilities and trust your instincts. Surround yourself with a diverse network of mentors and allies who can support and uplift you. Don’t shy away from taking risks or advocating for yourself—your ideas and contributions are valuable. Remember, leadership is not about perfection but about resilience and growth. Celebrate your achievements, big and small, and learn from setbacks. By being authentic and determined, you can inspire others and pave the way for future generations of women leaders.

What inspires you most about your work or your industry?

What inspires me most about my work in the banking and finance industry is the profound impact we have on individuals, businesses, and communities. Every day, we play a crucial role in facilitating economic growth and helping people achieve their financial goals. The ability to provide financial solutions that empower individuals to buy their first home, start a business, or secure their family’s future is incredibly fulfilling.

Moreover, the banking sector is undergoing a remarkable transformation driven by technology and innovation. The integration of fintech solutions is revolutionizing the way we deliver services, making banking more accessible and efficient. This shift not only enhances customer experiences but also opens up new avenues for growth and collaboration. I am inspired by the opportunity to be at the forefront of this change, leveraging technology to create better financial products and services.

Additionally, the emphasis on sustainability and ethical banking practices is a significant source of motivation. Many institutions are now prioritizing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, recognizing our responsibility to contribute positively to society. Being part of an industry that is increasingly focused on making a difference while ensuring profitability is both rewarding and inspiring.

In summary, it’s the combination of making a tangible difference in people’s lives, embracing innovation, and promoting sustainable practices that fuels my passion for the banking and finance industry. I am excited about the future and the potential we have to shape a more equitable financial landscape.

Who is a woman from history (or your own life) who has inspired you, and why?

One woman from history who has profoundly inspired me is Ruth Bader Ginsburg. As an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, Ginsburg broke barriers and became a symbol of resilience, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to gender equality and social justice. Her journey was not without challenges; she faced significant obstacles in a male-dominated legal field, yet she persevered, earning her place among the highest ranks of the judiciary.

Ginsburg’s legal career was marked by her advocacy for women’s rights and her groundbreaking work on cases that expanded gender equality. She co-founded the Women’s Rights Project at the ACLU, where she strategically litigated cases that challenged discriminatory laws and practices. Her approach was not just about winning legal battles; it was about changing societal norms and perceptions regarding gender roles.

What inspires me most about Ginsburg is her relentless pursuit of justice and her belief in the power of law as a tool for social change. She often spoke about the importance of dissent and the need to stand up for what is right, even when faced with adversity. Her famous quote, “Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you,” resonates deeply with me.

Through her legacy, Ginsburg has empowered countless women to pursue leadership roles and advocate for equality. She exemplified that one person’s voice can create ripples of change, inspiring me to strive for justice and equity in my own pursuits.

In one word, how would you describe the legacy you want to leave as a leader?

Empowerment

Share a favorite quote that motivates you.

Maya Angelou has several powerful quotes that touch on how people and their actions can affect your feelings and self-perception.

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”