On September 22, 2025, Bow Valley College proudly hosted representatives from Scotiabank to celebrate a transformative investment in student success. The $75,000 gift is made possible through ScotiaRISE, Scotiabank’s community investment initiative designed to help people have the chance to reach their full potential. ScotiaRISE funding supports EmpowerHER: Advancing Career Opportunities for Female Students, an initiative designed to increase female representation in business and technology through mentorship, experiential learning, and career development.

Taking place at the College campus, the event brought together Scotiabank leaders, Bow Valley College executives, and a group of inspiring student and alumni speakers whose stories reflected the heart of the initiative—building confidence, creating connections, and opening doors to new possibilities.

“EmpowerHER is more than a program—it’s a movement,” said Tasneem Rahim, Vice President of External Engagement. “It’s about creating opportunities that are not only equitable, but transformational.”

Scotiabank’s support aligns with its ScotiaRISE focus on supporting programs that help foster inclusion and help break down barriers to education and career attainment and advancement. The partnership marks a significant milestone in Bow Valley College’s efforts to foster inclusive excellence. With over 75% of the College’s student population identifying as female—many of whom are new comers or from equity-deserving communities—EmpowerHER is a timely and impactful response to systemic barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries.

Scotiabank’s District Vice President Nancy Horkoff reflected on the importance of why the company choose to invest in Bow Valley College. “Through the EmpowerHER initiative, we hope to help empower women to take on leadership roles, build confidence and gain valuable real-world skills.”  

The most impactful part of the event was the heartful words shared by our students and alumni speakers.  Each had a unique story to tell about how the wrap-around supports offered at Bow Valley College is helping them achieve their educational and career goals.

Nahrain Yasmin, a Practical Nursing student and speaker at the event, shared how her experience as a peer tutor has shaped her journey: “Through my role as a peer tutor, I’ve built stronger communication and interpersonal skills. I’ve learned how to clarify complex ideas, connect with diverse learners, and build trust. I’ve carried those skills over into both my academic work and clinical practice. In nursing, where human connection is at the heart of everything we do, these lessons are invaluable.”

Bow Valley College is deeply grateful to Scotiabank for their continued support and partnership. Together, we are helping students launch, advance, and evolve in their careers—and shaping a future where every learner can thrive.