CVCA Embarks On VC & PE Diversity & Inclusion Initiatives In Spirit Of IWD 2018
The CVCA is organizing and involved with various industry events around the lead-up for IWD 2018.
2018’s theme for International Women’s Day is #PressForProgress, a rallying call to continue the momentum and chase gender parity worldwide.
In celebration of International Women’s Day 2018 on March 8, Canada’s Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (CVCA) is embarking on a cross-country tour, speaking to female Canadian business school students on the viability of careers in Canadian venture capital and private equity.
In various cities in Canada around IWD 2018, business school participants will enjoy insights and an intimate, informal Q&A with female industry ambassadors, who will speak openly about the challenges and opportunities they’ve experience throughout their careers.
Canadian private capital industry ambassadors, led by Whitney Rockley Co-founder and Managing Partner of McRock Capital, will set out across Canada with industry colleagues. At the first “Ask Me Anything” AMA roundtable, Whitney will be joined by Lisa Melchior, Founder, Vertu Capital, who together will speak candidly about their career paths in private capital, how they’ve climbed to the partner level and how they’ve encouraged founders to build and scale great companies; playing a core role in Canada’s economy.
“We genuinely believe that attracting and retaining the best talent starts with accessing the largest and most diverse talent pool”, said Whitney Rockley, also Chair of the CVCA. “We want to share our stories and experiences to encourage women to consider a rewarding career in venture capital and private equity.”
“Diversity of thought at the board table is critical to achieving the best outcomes for companies and their shareholders,” said Lisa Melchior. “We would like to encourage women to aim to be leaders in the private capital industry, so we can benefit from their contributions.”
At select AMA sessions, a second, larger roundtable discussion will include participants from the Young Professionals Committee (YPC), a subcommittee of the CVCA. YPC participation is aimed at fostering the continuation of a diverse and sustainable Canadian private capital industry.
In a recent PwC survey, Next Generation Diversity: Developing Tomorrow’s Female Leaders, 82% of female respondents identified an employers’ policy on diversity, inclusion, and gender equality as an important factor when deciding whether or not to work for an organization. Employers must put into place a mix of inclusive talent and advancement strategies, which demonstrate results.
In addition to the cross-country roundtable discussions, the CVCA is participating in The 1st Annual IWD Advancing Girls & Women Celebration, an industry event marking International Women’s Day taking place on March 8th in Toronto. The collaborative event is produced by the CVCA, The Canada-United States Council for Advancement of Women Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders, MaRS Discovery District, #MoveTheDial, Plan International Canada and sponsored by BDC and CIBC. Watch for program and registration details shortly!
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