#InspireInclusion

Women's roles in the financial industry have evolved over the last decades. It transitioned from women being 'allowed' at the table to 'accommodated' to, most recently, organizations truly adapting to have female voices heard.

Progress has been made – but there is still a long way to go. While women have made monumental strides toward equity and inclusion, particularly in the past decade, much more needs to be done. Hence, it is crucial to continue this progress and support the evolution by opening opportunities for women, specifically through mentorship and sponsorship.

Celebrating diversity and inclusion on International Women's Day 2024 and beyond. In the special International Women's Day edition of the TDAM Talks Podcast , Ingrid Macintosh, VP Wealth, Head of Global Sales Enablement, Marketing and Digital Strategy, TD Asset Management Inc. (TDAM), Kim Parlee, Vice President, TD Wealth, and Priti Shokeen, Managing Director, Head of the ESG Research and Engagement Team, TDAM, highlight the importance of the role of mentors and sponsors for women's professional growth and bringing their voices to the forefront.

Kim Parlee describes the value of mentorship that enables people to think differently, gives them hard problems to solve, puts them out of their comfort zone, and highlights the importance of being sensitive to what they have to manage at the same time. Priti Shokeen describes female leaders as 'great enablers,' highlighting their role in stimulating professional growth and development, while Ingrid Macintosh points out the importance of recognizing differences in women's makeup that make them great empathetic leaders and team members.

By championing inclusion, organizations and communities can harness the full potential of diverse perspectives, leading to better decision-making and innovation. Evolution and progress come with diversity of thought at the leadership tables that influence decision-making processes, hearing even the softest voice in the room and amplifying it.

"If you whisper, people may lean in to hear"

Kim Parlee, Vice President, TD Wealth

Learn how TD Bank Group is committed to providing support and opportunities to women as valued colleagues, clients and communities through the TD Wealth for Women program.