IMPACT INITIATIVE

Scotiabank believes in Sonya

Stephanie Larivière, Managing Director and Global Head, FICC Sales, Scotiabank and Sonya Oguin, Let’s Start Up Pathway Graduate

Empowering her leadership in the healthcare sector

Scotiabank drives women’s leadership

Scotiabank has joined the Lise Watier Foundation’s IMPACT Initiative to support ambitious women seeking to transform their professional future. True to its values of inclusion, diversity, and social responsibility, Scotiabank firmly believes that financial independence and the development of women’s leadership are key levers for building a stronger and more equitable society. By partnering with Sonya Oguin, the bank demonstrates its commitment to concrete action in support of women’s advancement—going far beyond financial aid.

At Scotiabank, we believe that every woman should have the means to build a future that reflects her ambitions. Through ScotiaINSPIRE, we support initiatives that promote access to employment, training, and greater economic resilience. That’s why we’re proud to support the Lise Watier Foundation’s Let’s Start Up Pathway, which guides women on their journey toward sustainable financial independence. Behind every pathway lies a story, an ambition, and a strength waiting to be revealed—and we’re proud to be part of that transformation.” – Stephanie Larivière, Managing Director and Global Head, FICC Sales, Scotiabank

A nurse with ambition

Sonya Oguin is a trained nurse and a single mother of three children. Originally from the United States, she moved to Canada for family reasons but had to navigate a period marked by a divorce that profoundly impacted her personal and professional life. With the Let’s Start Up Pathway, which she completed alongside her daughter, she regained confidence and was able to envision a new professional trajectory focused on leadership. Today, as a medical records manager, she embodies resilience and determination.

A future focused on healthcare leadership

Driven by a desire to contribute to the evolution of the healthcare system, Sonya aspires to take on a leadership role in healthcare administration. Her goal is clear: to promote patient-centred practices and foster sustainable, systemic improvements. To achieve this, she is pursuing the Healthcare Leadership program at the Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto—a program recognized for developing leaders who combine emotional intelligence, strategic vision, and effective team management.

Scotiabank’s support

The partnership with Scotiabank serves as a true bridge toward achieving her ambitions. The IMPACT Grant allows Sonya to acquire the leadership and management skills essential for taking on roles of greater responsibility. In parallel, the mentorship provided by our partner will open access to a privileged business network while offering personalized guidance to strengthen her confidence, overcome impostor syndrome, and fully embrace her role as a leader.

This partnership is a win-win: Sonya benefits from unique human and professional support, while Scotiabank highlights its concrete commitment to inclusion and women’s empowerment, inspiring both the organization and the wider community.