AMEX Emerging Leaders Awards

Recognizing women between the ages of 30 to 40 years, who have been targeted for successive leadership positions within their organizations and have a proven passion for learning and innovation

ROCHELLE ATIZADO

Senior Advisor, Partnerships & Special Initiatives,

UNITED NATIONS FOUNDATION

BIO: A master connector, Rochelle Atizado leads social impact partnerships with purpose-driven companies, creative community, civil society, young people and the UN to propel the Sustainable Development Goals forward. Rochelle is also a UN published writer. A Filipino-canadian hailing from Toronto, Rochelle holds a bilingual Master of Public and International Affairs from York University. Having worked in Canada, Switzerland and the U.S., Rochelle is currently based in New York City.

MOST IMPORTANT CAREER LESSON: Go for it - always.

ON LIVING LIKE A LEGEND: To recognize our kuleana (Hawaiian), or responsibility, in making the world a better place and working relentlessly to do so.

ON WHAT POWERFUL MEANS: We are most powerful when we move through the world knowing our worth, using our power for social good, and remembering our ancestors are with us every step of the way.

LINDSAY COOK

Vice President - Control Brand, Social Media & Loyalty Marketing,

LOBLAW COMPANIES LIMITED

BIO: With over 16 years' industry experience, Lindsay has a reputation as a purpose-driven leader who prioritizes a customer-focused, people-first culture and is known for her creative thought leadership and collaboration. Her passion for the customer has driven her to become a leader in the retail marketing field. Lindsay graduated from Queen's University and has since worked with some of Canada's top brands; President's Choice, No Name, Joe Fresh and the group of retail banners under the Loblaw group of companies.

ON LIVING LIKE A LEGEND: Leaving a positive, impactful and lasting impression to those I have had the privilege to work with, collaborate with, lead and mentor. That my impression has been influential enough to pay it forward.

POWER SONG: Times Like These, Foo Fighters

FARAH BASTIEN

Director, R&D,

MAPLE LEAF SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT

BIO: Farah is a seasoned professional with over 10 years of experience in sports innovation, data science and R&D management. She led MLSE'S data science practice, developed advanced data systems for hockey and basketball, and introduced crucial roles like research scientists and data engineers. In 2021, she launched the Sportsx program in partnership with AWS, an experimental research space, solidifying MLSE'S position as a sports technology pioneer. Beyond work, she cherishes family time and watching and playing basketball.

MOST IMPORTANT CAREER LESSON: Things are always either going forward or backward; they're not staying static. If you are comfortable where you are and you just want to stay comfortable, that's fine, but that isn't the way to pursue excellence and wisdom.

ON WHAT POWERFUL MEANS: Responsible and accountable to drive the future; do things that are uncomfortable.

DR. REBECCA DAVIS

PH.D.

Associate Professor, UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA

BIO: Dr. Davis specializes in organic and computational chemistry. She has fostered an innovative, interdisciplinary and internationally recognized research program, producing significant peer-reviewed contributions and a supportive training environment for student researchers. Her group has applied their methodology to advanced research in many areas, including antibiotic discovery, early detection of Parkinson's disease, sustainability in chemical synthesis, and feature development for the accelerated discovery of drug compounds. To support her research, Dr. Davis has secured funding at the national level and private and non-profit sectors.

MOST IMPORTANT CAREER LESSON: My self-worth is not related to my success in my field.

ON WHAT POWERFUL MEANS: To put others before yourself and work toward a greater good.

POWER SONG: Learning to Fly, Tom Petty

VANDA BOYD

PMP

Senior Director, In Store System Solutions, HOME HARDWARE STORES LIMITED; Nominated as: Senior Director, Enterprise Implementation & Support, LOBLAW COMPANIES

BIO: Vanda Boyd is a purpose-driven, authentic business improvement leader who unleashes potential in others every day to amplify organizational outcomes. With over 20 years of combined retail and technology experience, she leverages her experience and skill to remove roadblocks and positively lead through change. Her creative, people-focused leadership style allows teams to be clear on the “what” and empowered in the “how.” She has earned the respect of her peers as a champion of diversity, equity and inclusion.

MOST IMPORTANT CAREER LESSON: To always remain curious, especially in difficult situations.

HEATHER DESSERUD

Director of Strategy, RESEARCH NOVA SCOTIA

BIO: Heather Desserud is a strategy professional with a background in innovation, economic development, research programming and strategic communications. Throughout her career spanning across not-for-profits, government, research, and industry, she has focused on translating big-picture thinking and broad priorities into tangible plans to achieve impact. As Director of Strategy at Research Nova Scotia, the province's research support organization, she has developed and led the implementation of a mission-oriented research strategy that mobilizes the strengths of research to solve societal challenges.

ON LIVING LIKE A LEGEND: It means considering the legacy and impact of my actions and work. Considering how to leave the world better off is the basis for a real legend.

POWER SONG: Queen of Kings, Alessandra

JAMIE DOOLITTLE

CPA

Head, Business Banking, Central Region,

BMO BANK OF MONTREAL

BIO: Jamie Doolittle is a seasoned leader with 15 years of experience at BMO Bank of Montreal in Business Banking. Jamie has been a strong individual contributor and leader and received multiple awards for her achievements and contributions. She's a strong advocate for the advancement of women in business and led several workshops on financial literacy, franchising, entrepreneurship and business development. Jamie holds a bachelor's degree in Management and Organizational Studies from Western University and a CPA designation.

ON WHAT POWERFUL MEANS: Being respected, trusted, and confident. Leaders who exhibit these attributes are typically leaders that are sought after for advice and guidance, command the room, and leave others feeling inspired and motivated to be the best versions of themselves.

POWER SONG: Express Yourself, Madonna

DR. NATHALIE NGUYEN-QUOC OUELLETTE

PH.D.

Deputy Director, TROTTIER INSTITUTE FOR RESEARCH ON EXOPLANETS (UNIVERSITÉ DE MONTRÉAL); Outreach Scientist, JAMES WEBB Deputy Director,

SPACE TELESCOPE; THE OBSERVATOIRE DU MONT- MÉGANTIC

BIO: Nathalie Nguyen-quoc Ouellette is an astrophysicist and science communicator. She obtained her PH.D. in physics and astronomy at Queen's University in 2016. Her research focuses on galaxy formation and evolution. Nathalie is the Deputy Director of the Trottier Institute for Research on Exoplanets (irex) and the Mont-mégantic Observatory (OMM) at the University of Montréal and is also the Outreach Scientist for the James Webb Space Telescope in Canada, collaborating with the Canadian Space Agency.

ON LIVING LIKE A LEGEND: It means believing that everything you do can have a huge impact on the people and the world around you.

ANNA HANNEM

BSC, MBA Vice-president, Data & AI Risk,

SCOTIABANK

BIO: Anna Hannem, of Ukrainian descent, moved to Canada at the age of six. Orphaned at 19, she raised her three sisters while pursuing a science degree. A health scare at 24 derailed her medical aspirations, auspiciously leading her to a successful business career. Gaining traction in the male-dominated data and analytics field, she is now Scotiabank's Vice-president of Data & AI Risk. Driven by resilience and determination, she mentors women and immigrants, and is passionate about her family, community and helping others.

ON LIVING LIKE A LEGEND: It's about how you leave people feeling, not (just) what you did, and I always strive to ensure that is at the forefront of anything I do. Maya Angelou said it best: "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."

ON WHAT POWERFUL MEANS: It's about what you do when you are in a position to drive change.

MAHIMA PODDAR

HBA, MBA Group Head & SVP, Personal Banking, EQUITABLE BANK

BIO: Mahima Poddar is known for turning big ideas into reality. Combining her experience in consulting at BCG with a vision for transforming banking, Mahima is SVP and Group Head, Personal Banking, at Equitable Bank, where she leads EQ Bank, Personal Lending, Marketing and Payments. Under her leadership, Equitable Bank has acquired multiple businesses, introduced many new product lines, and surpassed $8 billion in deposits.

MOST IMPORTANT CAREER LESSON: The power and beauty of being unapologetically authentic. Embracing my true self, even if it defies societal norms, has not only liberated me from the shackles of conformity but also allowed me to carve a unique path that aligns with my values and passions.

ON LIVING LIKE A LEGEND: Embracing the journey of continual growth while inspiring others along the way. It's about constantly evolving, learning from experiences, and becoming a better version of ourselves.

GRACE LOZANO

SVP, Strategic Development, North America,

SKIPTHEDISHES AND GRUBHUB

BIO: Since joining the organization in 2017, Grace Lozano has held several leadership roles and built the Strategic Development team from the ground up. Under her guidance, the team shapes corporate strategy, provides invaluable market insights and evaluates critical operational decisions in a highly competitive and rapidly growing industry. Previously, Grace held positions in corporate development and investment banking at G3 Canada Limited and TD Securities.

MOST IMPORTANT CAREER LESSON: The power of embracing risk and being comfortable with discomfort or stepping into the unknown.

ON LIVING LIKE A LEGEND: It is about leading with an unwavering commitment to the growth and success of your entire team and being a mentor and champion for others around you.

ON WHAT POWERFUL MEANS: Believing in yourself and having the confidence to face challenges head-on.

KIMBERLY SIMON

MBA

VP - Partnerships & Alliances,

CONTROLCASE

BIO: Kimberly Simon is a visionary cybersecurity expert, accomplished author and captivating speaker who has transcended barriers and blazed a trail of success. Her journey has been noteworthy. She recognized the lack of representation and diversity within the cybersecurity industry and persevered with resilience and a pioneering spirit that inspires many others. Kimberly dedicated herself to driving cybersecurity awareness and promoting inclusivity in the industry. With unwavering determination, Kimberly shattered stereotypes and became a driving force in the cybersecurity compliance industry.

ON LIVING LIKE A LEGEND: Embracing life with purpose, fearlessly pursuing your dreams, and positively impacting others. It's about living your life with grace and the spirit of service. Living like a legend is about embracing challenges, learning from experiences, and using one's journey to inspire and uplift others.

POWER SONG: Firm Foundation, Maverick City

MBA Vice-president, Forecasting, Replenishment & Planning, CANADIAN TIRE CORPORATION, LIMITED

BIO: Brittany is a dynamic leader with retail experience that spans Merchandising, Marketing, Financial Planning and Replenishment. As VP of Forecasting and Replenishment, Brittany is responsible for the correct timing of the $11-billion flow of goods from vendors to Canadian Tire stores at the right quantities. Passionate for promoting diversity and inclusion, she was one of the founders of CTC'S Families Employee Resource Group. Brittany holds an Honours BBA from Brock University and an MBA from the Schulich School of Business.

ON LIVING LIKE A LEGEND: It is about challenging the status quo, inspiring others to act and creating a lasting legacy through your actions and achievements.

ON WHAT POWERFUL MEANS: Acting as someone who supports and uplifts others regardless of the circumstances.

POWER SONG: Sabotage, Beastie Boys

DR. JENNIFER ZWICKER

MPP, PHD Associate Professor and Director of Social Policy and Health,

UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY; Deputy Scientific Officer, KIDS BRAIN HEALTH NETWORK

BIO: Dr. Jennifer Zwicker is Director of Health at the School of Public Policy, associate professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, and Deputy Scientific Officer for Kids Brain Health Network. A Canada Research Chair (II) in Disability Policy for Children and Youth, her research informs policy to improve access to and integration of services for families of youth with disability. She is a member of the federal Disability Advisory Committee and was recently recognized in Canada's Top 40 under 40.

MOST IMPORTANT CAREER LESSON: Never stop learning, adapting and growing because life never stops teaching.

ON WHAT POWERFUL MEANS: Powerful leaders set standards, are accountable to themselves and lead by example.

POWER SONG: Levels, Avicii

Embracing my true self, even if it defies societal norms ~ Mahima Poddar

Never stop learning, adapting and growing because life never stops teaching ~ Dr. Jennifer Zwicker

#WXNTOP100