Being open to Diversity and establishing one’s personal network have become crucial necessities of modern day business. In 2007, I attended the 1st Out on Bay Street Conference as a 1st year student at the Schulich School of Business. My first ever real exposure to the corporate world in an atmosphere made comfortable for me to be myself and connect with business professionals and students, along with companies that were keen on making diversity a top priority was an unforgettable experience.
The conference gave me the chance to gain insight into the amount of value I possessed by being part of the LGBT community; a fact proven by the amount of support and commitment by corporate firms in attendance at the Career Fair. Through conversing with a number of HR Representatives and staff from TD Bank, I was informed about the amount of training and mentorship provided to employees; in addition to the importance of progression and self-development. This exclusive opportunity to also learn about the vast opportunities and diverse initiatives within the firm guided me to apply for an employment position. Being a member of the LGBT community and attending the Out on Bay street conference were both highly respected attributes of my resume and application and most importantly, assisted me in gaining the role as a Customer Service Representative at TD Bank shortly after starting my first few months of university.
The conference; like no other, was very successful and opened my eyes to learning the importance that such events represent for the LGBT community. And, the importance of promoting openness and change within the ways that all businesses across Canada operate. I decided that I would dedicate my time to help organize the 2008 Out on Bay Street conference, where I was able to work with a team of 5 which consisted of MBA students and business professionals. As a 2nd year undergraduate student, my mission in mind was to allow for other students to gain the insight and benefits I received as an attendee, as well as with my team increase the scope of the conference. It was my previous success and this new initiative that allowed me to gain an Internship in TD Business Banking in the summer of 2009.
My progress and dedication to both TD Bank and Out on Bay Street coincide with my passion towards providing an opportunity for growth as both are very committed to diversity and the communities within each operate. After a successful second conference in 2008, I took on the role as Co-Chair for the 2009 Conference, along side, Daniel Oliviera, a 2007 organizing member and a new diverse and dedicated team. We have been working exceptionally hard to expand our initiative to more students and companies across Canada. We are positive that each year promises to be more successful than the last with the long-term goal of having all companies across Canada embrace inclusiveness within the workplace and diversity within the workforce.
- Michael Mirpuri