It began as a simple challenge...

It began as a simple challenge to our worldwide offices to increase fitness and team-building and became, for the U.S. office in Blue Bell, PA, a win-win! The Canada Life Re U.S. team had not only the winning number of steps but impetus to reach a goal of 400,000 steps, resulting in a $2,000 sponsorship for The Gateway Foundation for a variety of program opportunities. 

The Gateway Foundation addresses the journey to add racial diversity to the financial services workforce at all levels, by starting at the entry-level to build a larger base for future mid- and senior-level professionals.

This program is administered by the Money Management Institute and offers highly motivated African-American and Hispanic students a proven pathway into the financial services industry. The Gateway program is designed to help qualified university juniors and seniors:

  1. DISCOVER the opportunities and career paths available in financial services
  2. LEARN industry basics so they are well prepared for interviews and a fast career start
  3. CONNECT with firms that are hiring for internships and entry-level positions

Mychal Reed, Senior Accountant, was the lead for the U.S. team and introduced us to the great work of Gateway in encouraging minority students to examine the financial services industry.