Overview:

What drives effective leadership in today’s financial institutions? Technology, regulation, and strategy all play their roles, but it’s people who truly power progress.

As the financial services industry navigates growing complexity, inclusion and belonging have emerged as business-critical values. Research confirms that diverse, empowered teams make better decisions, manage risk more effectively, and build greater trust. Yet many professionals - especially women and underrepresented groups - continue to face barriers to leadership, recognition, and support.

In a region where women remain underrepresented in banking leadership, how do we create environments where everyone feels they belong? What does inclusive leadership look like in risk, compliance, and decision-making roles? And how can institutions foster growth, resilience, and innovation through a broader lens of equity and inclusion?

This session brings together leaders and changemakers to explore the future of banking through the lens of belonging. Together, we’ll uncover the practical ways financial institutions can empower their people, strengthen teams, and lead with purpose.

Topics of Discussion:

1. What challenges are you facing in risk and compliance, and how can diverse perspective help here?

2. What does inclusion and belonging look like in your organization today?  

3. What barriers do underrepresented groups face in advancing within your institution?

4. What leadership behaviours foster psychological safety and trust?

5. How is your organization supporting development and well-being in a high-pressure environment?

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