A select group of women, including an insurance advisor, was honoured by Toronto-based BMO Financial Group for their contribution to business or their community on Wednesday.
The firm announced the individuals were being recognized through its “BMO Celebrating Women” program, a new initiative that acknowledges the efforts of women in three categories: innovation and global growth; community and charitable giving; and expansion and growth in small business. One recipient is chosen from each category in the cities of Vancouver, Halifax, Toronto and Waterloo, Ont.
“We recognize the power of women. Whether they are self-made – building wealth from their own businesses and careers – or have inherited wealth, women are an economic force,” says Joanna Rotenberg, chief marketing officer and head of strategy for BMO.
One recipient is Diane Dupuis, an insurance advisor and president of Richmond, B.C.-based Dupuis Langen Financial Management, who was chosen for her contributions to her community. These include her 17-year stint as a board member of her local hospital’s foundation, where she helped raise millions of dollars for health care in that region. As well, in 2013, she established a non-profit trust, the Act West Community Foundation, to help women pursue post-secondary education.
The recipients are receiving an all-expenses paid trip to attend the EXCELerate conference, which is a networking opportunity for women business owners. The event will take place in Vancouver from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2, 2015.