Conestoga’s School of Business hosted its first SheMeansBusiness event aimed at inspiring and empowering women and gender minorities by fostering their interest in business education.
The inaugural SheMeansBusiness event was held at the Kitchener - Doon campus, including speakers and an opportunity to network.
The inaugural event held November 7 at the Kitchener - Doon campus included speakers who shared their career insights and stories, and a chance to network for the students, alumni, faculty and staff who attended.
Conestoga alumna Karen Bilton shared stories of her struggles and challenges throughout her career, centering her talk around the theme of encouraging the audience to not shy away from difficulties.
Bilton knows firsthand about resolve leading to exciting new opportunities having left her full-time job in her early 40s to pursue a new career in finance by enrolling in Conestoga’s Financial Planning Services program.
After graduating in 2014, Bilton began her new career at BMO Nesbitt Burns as an investment advisor before moving to Meridian Credit Union, first as a senior wealth advisor before shifting her focus to commercial banking as a business development manager. Now Bilton serves as the commercial deposit specialist, supporting all Meridian business banking centres across Ontario.
She encouraged the audience to surround themselves with good people, ask for help when it’s needed, be yourself and open to possibilities.
“You can do hard things. On the other side of accomplishing something hard is where the magic is. You gain strength, confidence and competency,” Bilton said.
Other alumni on the panel included Carol Witzke, who graduated from the program known now as Business Administration - Supply Chain and Operations Management, Courtney Zoeller, graduate of the Graphic Design advanced diploma program who started her graphic design and photography business through the Conestoga Entrepreneurship Collective’s Gig Lab, and Laura Phillips, who graduated from the Business - Insurance program.
Event organizer Jamie Wiebe, chair in the School of Business, was very pleased by how well the inaugural event was received.
“The success of the SheMeansBusiness launch has been truly inspiring. Seeing students, faculty and alumni come together to share experiences and build connections highlights the incredible power of community and collaboration,” Wiebe said.
Future events are already in the works for next year, for both current Conestoga students as well as outreach to high school students. Since the event, more industry partners and alumni have shown interest in joining.
“We’re thrilled to announce that future events are already in the works for next year, for both the current student body and including outreach to high school students. Together, we’ll continue to inspire and engage the next generation of business leaders,” Wiebe said.
Students shared positive feedback in an anonymous survey, recommending all business students to not miss the opportunity to connect with other students and alumni.
“Attending these events can help you build connections and learn new things. You might discover something that can improve your professional life. Even just one new idea or contact can make it worthwhile. Don't miss out on the opportunity to grow.”
The School of Business provides numerous options, opportunities and pathways for students to complete, specialize or expand their business education. Programs reflect today’s business needs across a wide range of credentials, from apprenticeships, one-year certificates, two-year and three-year advanced diplomas, to graduate certificates and degree opportunities that include multiple specializations. Bachelor’s degree programs include International Business Management; Accounting, Audit and Information Technology; and Financial Services.