Alumni inspire students at the Fall 2024 Leadership Series

Paula Hohner (BES '96) a graduate from the Environment, Resource and Sustainability program, expressed her desire to give back to the community after years away from her alma mater.

"I wanted to give back, especially as a woman in this field. It's important to share my experiences with students who are just starting out. I hope to share some stories and insights that can help them in their journeys."

She emphasized the significance of networking, encouraging students to ask questions and reach out to professionals. "Don't stop asking questions. You never know when that connection could lead to future opportunities."

Bianca Rocha (BES '15, MCC '22) described her desire to share the challenges she faced in her career journey given her recent entry into the corporate sector, having joined Libro Credit Union in November 2022 as a Purpose Integration Specialist with a Climate focus. Her role focuses on understanding Libro’s areas of impact and developing a climate change strategy for the credit union. She has her Bachelor of Environmental Studies in Environment & Business and her Masters of Climate Change from the University of Waterloo.

"It took me a while to find my footing, and I want students to know it's okay to struggle. Sharing both the wins and obstacles is crucial." She highlighted the importance of self-advocacy in shaping one’s career. "It allows you to set parameters for what you want and what's important to you." 

Libro Credit Union is also a generous donor and supporter of the faculty's Global Citizen Internship program, which enables committed, talented, and passionate Environment undergraduate and graduate students to apply their knowledge in a work setting at Canadian registered charities and non-profit organizations with local and global reach.

Cayla Rampersadsingh, a current Honors Environment and Business (ENBUS) student, expressed her inspiration from seeing alumni succeed in their careers. Cayla added that the networking sessions illuminated the various roles that graduates can play in the professional world, from sustainable development to corporate social responsibility.

"Hearing their stories was incredibly motivating," she said. "It showed me that it's possible to carve out a meaningful career that integrates both my passion for environmental stewardship and my interest in business. The alumni's journeys highlighted how they navigated challenges and seized opportunities, demonstrating that it’s not just about choosing one path over the other, but rather finding a way to blend both passions." 

"It made me realize that I can make a real difference while pursuing my career goals. Their success stories reassured me that with determination and the right mindset, I too can contribute positively to the field and advocate for sustainable practices in the business world. It’s motivating to know that I can combine my environmental and business interests in a fulfilling career." 

Hephzibah Adebola, a second-year Planning student, emphasized the importance of being proactive in one's education and career, noting that the event reinforced the crucial role of networking in one's professional development.

"Recognizing opportunities, and showing up is essential. You never know what could happen if you put in the work. It's all about putting yourself in situations where you can learn and grow, whether it’s attending events like this or reaching out to professionals in the field, each experience has the potential to open new doors. Meeting alumni and hearing their insights reminded me that every conversation can lead to something valuable. It encourages me to step out of my comfort zone and actively seek out connections. By showing up [today] and engaging with others, I [not only] expand my knowledge but also build relationships that might lead to internships or job opportunities down the line. It's all about being present and making the most of each moment."

Passionate and driven students like Hephzibah, exemplify why generous donors such as MHBC Planning are committed to establishing awards like the MHBC Award for Black and Indigenous students. These scholarships are designed to empower students with the resources they need to achieve their academic and professional aspirations.