Senior manager, regional marketing, Scotiabank
Age 37
What career highlight are you most proud of?
Early on in the pandemic, in collaboration with Scotiabank’s diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) team, I initiated a task force to support anti-Asian and anti-discrimination work at the bank. The positive outcomes of this taskforce continue to support DEI initiatives today. Part of the outcome included providing resources to support frontline employees in managing DEI-related matters among various groups.
What has been your toughest business or professional decision to date?
It’s easier said than done, but I strive to get out of my comfort zone. One way I’ve done this is by making a switch in my career from one industry to another—essentially coupling together my passion for corporate and community. Getting out of my comfort zone has helped me grow and develop in my career and I believe it’s paid off.
How do you lead?
With trust. I am a collaborative straight shooter. I build relationships and lead with unwavering integrity.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned in business?
If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. Having a heightened level of self-awareness is key and surrounding yourself with incredibly talented people who complement each other will serve you well in all aspects of life. Shared success is much more meaningful.
Best piece of advice ever received?
Know your worth and surround yourself with people who are smarter than you.
What is your definition of success?
When my home and professional life are separate yet aligned.
What are you most passionate about outside of work?
Family.
What’s left to accomplish?
I want to continue to contribute and do meaningful and impactful work that supports the business and the communities we serve. And wherever my career takes me, I’ll be guided by integrity and always doing the right thing.
Anything else you would you like to share with us?
Representation matters in several ways. For me, it is important for young people—and the young at heart—to tangibly see themselves represented across industries in positions of influence, in books they read, in shows they watch, in community champions and the like because I believe they’ll see what’s possible as they grow and develop in their personal and professional endeavours.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or acknowledge?
My parents gave up everything to move to Canada—their sacrifices made me. My husband, we’ve been through some major health challenges over the last two years. He has been my rock. He gives me hope and he makes sure I don’t take things too seriously. (I love you.) My friends—both near and far—thank you for being my cheer squad. My colleagues, past and present have made me better. My mentors—their advocacy, sponsorship and unwavering support drives me. I will continuously strive to make them all proud.
A personal motto, favourite phrase or saying that resonates with you?
Stay humble, work hard, be kind
A philanthropic, charitable or community cause or organization you support?
Vancouver Chinatown Foundation, YWCA, Big Sisters and Sources Foundation
What do you do to unwind, relax or de-stress?
Travel, disconnecting and spending time with family
Favourite place in the province?
My in-laws’ home in Campbell River
Favourite restaurant(s)?
Phnom Penh (if you know, you know)
A book or podcast you would recommend?
101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think by Brianna West
What is your best habit?
Being a straight shooter. My friends, family and team always know where they stand and how I can support them
A B.C. business leader you admire?
Carol Lee, Tracy Redies, Chantelle Krish, Yuri Fulmer and Stephen Gaskin
Tell us one surprising or little-known fact about yourself.
I can speak three languages—English, Cantonese and Tagalog
