Net Impact SFU is dedicated to empowering the next generation to make a positive impact on society and the environment throughout their professional journeys. Through the volunteer-led chapter, Net Impact fosters a community of like-minded individuals and offer a range of events and programs to support members who aspire to leverage business as a catalyst for environmental and social change.
Everyone is invited to join the club in driving this transformative movement. The mission of Net Impact is to showcase the importance of integrating sustainability into business practices through a combination of events, educational initiatives, and networking opportunities. By embracing these practices, students at the Beedie School of Business can develop into forward-thinking and responsible leaders in the business world.
In March 2024, an engaging virtual session titled “Personal Branding for Success” took place, providing attendees with valuable insights and strategies. One of the distinguished speakers at the event was Rylan Dobson, an accomplished Beedie alumnus who made a remarkable career transition from Project Manager to becoming a renowned global expert in water stewardship and sustainability consulting.
Rylan Dobson’s presence was a highlight of the session, as he shared his personal journey and demonstrated how he successfully rebranded himself to align with his passion for sustainability. His experience served as an inspiration to those seeking to make a meaningful impact and pursue a career in a field they are passionate about.
The attendees gained a deeper understanding of the impact of personal branding on career advancement and professional opportunities. They explored various techniques to leverage social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram, to expand their network, engage with industry professionals, and showcase their achievements and expertise.
Another significant initiative in the sustainability realm was the highly anticipated 2024 SFU Net Impact Sustainability Challenge, which took place from January to March 2024. This year’s edition of the challenge was proudly supported by Aritzia, a prominent Canadian women’s fashion brand known for its commitment to community impact.
Aritzia recognizes the importance of considering the well-being of people, the planet, and the communities they operate in. With this in mind, Aritzia embraces a holistic approach to sustainability, aiming to make a positive difference through their business practices and their impact on the environment and surrounding communities.
This challenge provided a valuable opportunity for students passionate about sustainability to gain practical experience by collaborating with Aritzia to address a real business issue. MBA students were invited to participate in this exhilarating and intellectually stimulating event, where they could apply their skills to help Aritzia tackle a sustainability challenge. Organized by SFU’s Net Impact chapter, the challenge underscored the application of business skills for social and environmental good.
The SFU Net Impact Sustainability Challenge fostered a collaborative environment for participants to engage with industry professionals, exchange ideas, and develop innovative strategies. Through teamwork and critical thinking, students had the opportunity to devise creative solutions aligned with Aritzia’s sustainability objectives. This immersive experience enhanced their problem-solving abilities and expanded their understanding of sustainable business practices.
By participating in the challenge, students not only gained valuable practical experience but also had the chance to contribute to Aritzia’s ongoing sustainability efforts. They showcased their talent, passion, and dedication to sustainability while building meaningful connections with industry leaders. The challenge opened doors to potential career prospects in the sustainability field.
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About the Author
Carina Wang holds a Master of Professional Accounting degree from UNSW (Sydney) and is a qualified ACCA professional. With four years of experience as an accountant, she has accumulated valuable expertise across multiple domains. Notably, she specializes in offering extensive tax advice to both individuals and companies, concentrating on strategies for tax minimization. Furthermore, she possesses adeptness in preparing financial statements and demonstrates proficiency in the valuation of mutual funds and private equity funds.