Like so many of us, Neda Zanjani found herself becoming more reflective during the COVID-19 pandemic. While she spent more time at home, she began to think more about her life goals, and she decided that she wanted to find a volunteer opportunity that was meaningful to her. After learning about an opening on Nellie’s board of directors through a friend’s LinkedIn post, Neda applied and became one of our newest board members in September 2022.
“Nellie’s was a perfect fit,” says Neda. “I’ve always been interested in supporting women’s causes, especially those that are in vulnerable circumstances and need support the most.”
Born in England to Iranian parents, Neda and her family immigrated to Canada when she was 11 years old. It was this personal experience that also made Neda realize that Nellie’s was the right match for her, because many new immigrant women come through our doors each year. “That resonated a lot with me because I know exactly what that feels like — to come into a different country and start from scratch. I saw my parents go through a number of these challenges, too,” explains Neda. “I would love to have that type of an impact on these women who are in need of support or guidance.”
Whether when she was growing up, studying in university, or now in her career, Neda knows that the one thing that has made a significant impact on her life was having a strong support system. From her family members and friends, to her colleagues and her mentors, Neda credits this support to being critical to her personal and professional successes. “I think Nellie’s community work really serves the same purpose,” explains Neda. “It’s so invaluable and has so much potential to truly change the direction of these women’s lives — not to mention for the kids that come through the organization, as well.”
With over 15 years of experience in the financial services industry and as the current Head of Business Management, Wealth and Personal Banking at HSBC Bank Canada, we’re very fortunate that Neda has also joined our fund development committee. Knowing that the health of any charitable organization is dependent on funding, Neda hopes to contribute to these efforts by knocking on as many doors as possible to help increase our financial support. “I’m thrilled to be a part of that committee, and I hope to do my best to raise awareness and make as many introductions in the industry as I can,” says Neda.
Neda considers it a real privilege to be able to effect change through her new role at Nellie’s, and to work alongside a team of incredible women. “The women who work in this organization are so passionate about what they do and the community that they serve. The work that they do has never been so impactful than at a time like this, when there’s so many different challenges that are impacting the wellness of these women. I think contributing to Nellie’s is really an investment in the future of many women and kids who have already overcome extraordinary challenges, but really need our support right now.”
To make a donation to Nellie’s, please visit our Donate page.
