Popular event put spotlight on (more) women in finance

In May – the European Diversity month – the Women’s Career Network (WCN) invited Nordea to join forces in organising a virtual well-being event for Finnish female students. The two hours inspirational event, which involved body and mind exercises, and tasty treats, was popular. The event was fully booked within two days with 30 students signed up and +20 on a waiting list. And the feedback was overwhelmingly positive; “excellent”, “very successful”, “inspiring” – read on, and see the responds from participants.

The event kicked off with energy-boosting yoga, guided by SagaYoga. Afterwards, the participants were in for another treat; dinner was brought to their homes by Wolt couriers, which they could enjoy while following a panel discussion with Nordea representatives from Markets and Investment Banking in Finland.

The panel consisted of a diversified group of Finnish employees at Nordea Markets and Investment Banking; women working in various areas of the bank, with varied career stages and different backgrounds – such as manager, senior sales manager with background from gaming industry and associate from Investment Banking.

The panellists shared their individual career stories, and openheartedly told about personal situations which have required their courage – both at work and outside work. Well in to their respective careers, they also discussed what kind of advice they would have given themselves back then when they were about to graduate or when starting their careers.

Starting a family – a certain kind of courage for women

“Many job tasks may feel exciting but also even intimidating because there is so much responsibility – which also makes it very fascinating. With an open mind, and with courage, you can handle them. What other way is there to gain experience, and build more courage? It is important to have trust in yourself and your abilities,” said a panelist.

“You can trust in your colleagues – reach out and you’ll get support and guidance from senior colleagues. You must also have courage to step outside your comfort zone – that way you’ll evolve. Looking back, you’ll realise that it’s actually your own personal expectations and thoughts that might be your biggest obstacles,” added a fellow panelist.

Another panellist mentioned that starting a family, could perhaps also need a certain kind of courage for women, and revealed that she herself was pondering on when would be the right time for her, considering her career.

“I’ve realised there would never be a “right time”, and I should just have the courage to proceed with my plans. Having taken that decision, I discovered that Nordea was a very supportive employer, which helped dissolve any fears or doubts combining family life and a career,” the panellist told.

Feedback from participants:

“The whole event was excellent. Yoga, food, interesting careers and stories. Would love to have more of these kind of events”.

“Panel discussion and the break out room sessions could have been longer as the topic was so interesting”.

“A very successful event and the Nordea representatives were inspiring”.

“Wonderfully warm and versatile event, and good discussions as well”.

“Very interesting to hear about the career paths in Nordea. I’m now more interested in Nordea as an employer after hearing about the personal growth stories.”