Hello, my name is Asmittha Ajanthan (she/her) and HBA1 student at Ivey Business School, Western University. You can often find me with an iced coffee and book in hand, playing the drums, or in a kayak. I was born and raised in Ottawa, and constantly witnessed people calling for action on Parliament Hill. This has inspired me to support causes including LGBTQ+ rights, feminism, and sustainability initiatives. With a blend of financial analysis, collaboration, and communication skills, I am poised to make meaningful contributions to sustainability and beyond, shaping a world that prioritizes the well-being of both people and the planet.

What is your personal definition of sustainability? 

To me, sustainability means being conscious of your environmental impact, reducing overconsumption, and preserving resources. It is about balancing the essential needs of the present while being aware of future needs. It entails adopting a global perspective, understanding the nuances of cultures' relationships to the Earth, and how to implement environmental consciousness in several contexts. Ultimately, it helps to nurture and give back to the planet that has given us so much.

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

Outside of my professional career, I enjoy spending time outdoors and breathing in fresh air. This year at Ivey, I really learned a lot more about the intersection of sustainability and finance, and the sheer number of opportunities that exist in this space. In my professional career, I hope to contribute to creating an impact by aligning my work with advancing ESG goals. Living in a capitalistic society, we need capital to effect change. To support businesses that advance environmental interests, social governance, and B Corps by either investing in them or working for them, would be the avenue I want to pursue professionally. Consumers are gravitating towards supporting sustainable businesses, so there is truly profit potential in this space. Ideally, identifying up-and-coming businesses that advance social good, conservation, and environmental rehabilitation to invest in, would be a focal point in my career.

Within the workplace, I want to work in an environment that centres ESG and values the triple bottom line: people, planet, and profit. I aim to work for a company that practices integrity and transparency, not greenwashing, and truly considers sustainability in its day-to-day operations.

What sustainability projects have you been engaged in?

At a local community cultural centre, some friends and I were keen to push more sustainability initiatives on Earth Day. Thus, we brainstormed and proposed ideas to the congregation to help improve the environmental consciousness and impact we had. The community centre was frequented by a lot of seniors, who also had trouble getting groceries. Hence, we started an indoor garden in the centre, which was used to prepare meals and was made available and accessible to the seniors. We also advised the congregation to turn off lights when rooms were not in use and provided household tips on how to reduce your environmental footprint at home.

Furthermore, I have participated in numerous litter cleanup initiatives. These initiatives allowed me to meet and bond with like-minded individuals, all the while making a tangible impact on the ecosystem around me. This past summer, I had the opportunity to visit Sri Lanka. I was fortunate enough to visit and support a local elephant sanctuary. This expanded my perspective on how sustainability and environmental conservation look different in various parts of the world.

Please list any sustainability-related interests you want to explore during the certificate. 

I am very interested in the intersection of sustainability and finance. This extends to responsible investing, stakeholder theory, social impact, and green bonds, as well as sustainable investment funds.