Becoming a leader of tomorrow - Avedeep Nijjar

Leaders of Tomorrow (LOT) has been one of the most impactful programs in my life. As a student who is in the final year of their undergrad, to find a career in finance, I knew that I need to build my network and hone my leadership skills, but I wasn't sure how to do it. That's when I heard about the LOT program and decided to apply. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions I've ever made.

The LOT program has four pillars: mentorship, leadership, networking, and volunteerism. These pillars were critical to my growth and development, helping me excel in various fields:

Mentorship: When I started the program, I was paired with my mentor, and I was able to learn from his insights and better understand what it takes to succeed in Greater Vancouver. He also advised me on my career path and helped me navigate the challenges of starting a new job.

Leadership: The LOT program also helped me develop my leadership skills. Through workshops and seminars, I learned about different leadership styles and techniques and was able to put them into practice in group projects and presentations. I also had the opportunity to meet and learn from industry leaders who shared their insights and experiences with us. This helped me to develop my leadership style and gave me the confidence to take on leadership roles in my career.

Networking: Perhaps the LOT program's most valuable aspect was its networking opportunities. As part of the program, we had access to over 100 Greater Vancouver Board of Trade events to meet and connect with professionals from different industries. This was incredibly valuable as a recent graduate looking to build my network. I took advantage by going to many events and learning from individuals there. In fact, networking at one such event helped me get a job opportunity at Scotiabank Commercial, where I will be starting after graduation. That's the power of networking at GVBOT events.

Volunteerism: The LOT program encouraged us to be agents for change in our community. I am passionate about giving back and volunteering, which aligns well with me. Through volunteer opportunities, we were able to give back to the community while developing skills that would be valuable in our careers. I was able to develop and lead many initiatives while volunteering too. I was able to develop my project management, communication, and teamwork skills while making a difference in the community.

Looking back on my time with LOT, it was an incredible and rewarding experience. I would've never expected anything like this from a program. The mentorship, leadership development, networking, and volunteer opportunities all contributed to my growth as a person and a professional. I recommend the LOT program to any student looking to gain experience, build their network, and develop their skills.

Avedeep is an LOT mentee in the 2022-23 cohort, currently pursuing her Bachelors in Business Administration from the Simon Fraser Univsiery. She is set to join Scotiabank Commercial after her graduation. Learn more about the Leaders of Tomorrow program and apply today.