Hi, I’m Jessica! I love exploring new technological and financial solutions for the future to shape a more sustainable world. I am interested in implementing ESG values at the core of a business, regardless of the stage of development. Specifically, I enjoy learning about governmental regulations, financial decarbonization, and the sustainable opportunity in Web3 and the metaverse. I plan to lead the future for sustainability and build a world that systemically renews itself. Overall, I am passionate about social impact, care about collaborative ideas, and am always excited to learn. Fun-facts: I own 47 plants and have two pet turtles! 

What is your personal definition of sustainability?

I believe sustainability encompasses more than protecting the environment or using recyclable products, but rather the notion that the planet is a living being that needs to be taken care of in order to function properly for future generations. We understandably use resources from the earth, and in the society we have built, it is incredibly difficult to stop. Still, we must adapt to use these resources prudently and without waste. That is the definition of sustainability; to take what we need and only need, while ensuring that future generations can do the same without scarcity or deficit.  

What role do you see sustainability playing in your professional career? 

This summer I am working as an ESG consultant intern at KPMG, focused on sustainable banking and green investments. I am passionate about this position because I play a direct role in regulating sustainability reports for other organizations, promoting sustainable corporate development, and investing money into organizations focused on green energy. I hope to remain in sustainability consulting to shape the world to be more environmentally conscious from a corporate level, especially because large corporations are some of the world’s highest carbon emitters. Recently, Canada mandated ESG reporting disclosers for all federally regulated financial institutions starting in 2024, therefore there is a lot of opportunity to enter and manage this new industry with fairly low regulation. I hope to learn more about materiality assessments, TCFD standards, and carbon reduction programs as I explore my career. I have many mentors who are specialized in sustainability consulting, and they have guided me through the policies and priorities of sustainability in the workforce. I hope to do the same for others as I enter managerial roles and have the opportunity to lead these discussions. 

What sustainability projects have you been engaged in?

As a Marketing Intern at TD, I worked on the Green Team within Marketing North America to limit waste from single-use utensils and cups as employees return to the office. We leveraged ESG industry reports and successfully planned a conference for the bank. Further, I am passionate about competing in sustainability case competitions. Most recently, I placed 1st in Ivey’s Inaugural Global Sustainability Co-Creation Challenge. I analyzed the key challenges faced by social entrepreneurs and the sustainability ecosystem of Vietnam, creating an 18-page report. Additionally, I placed as a finalist for L'Oréal Brandstorm in the Sustainability category, outlining a proposal for reusable shampoo and condition bottles using dispensers in retail stores. I would love to bring my enthusiasm for innovation and sustainability to my courses in Ivey to learn core values of valuable impact.