Desirée Chernel (she/her/elle)
Disability Claims Consultant
Medavie Blue Cross

What are your family’s roots? What are the cultural traditions that have shaped and enriched your life?

My parents are from Trinidad and Tobago. I grew up in Montreal and recall how important it was to show me, my brothers, and cousins the parts of their culture that have now become our favourite traditions. During holidays such as Christmas and Easter, Parang and Calypso music, is always playing. Both are genres of music that originated in Trinidad. Of course, we have all the Trini food you could imagine: roti, curry goat, oxtail, fry bake, to name a few. If you are on a diet, my family’s house is not the place for you!

The part that stands out the most for me, is seeing everyone dancing and feeling happy in the moment. This is a memory I will have forever, and I hope to pass on to my future children.

Attending Toronto Caribana (Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival) is a must. It’s like having a piece of Trinidad here in Toronto. My friends and I look forward to the festivities every year.

How do you think your life differs from those of your parents and grandparents?

I have opportunities they unfortunately did not have growing up in Trinidad or even when they came to Canada in the 1970s. I feel like I can become anything I want in this world due to the sacrifices my parents made for us. Their decision to leave their home and come to Canada was so their children could have a better life. There is no way for me to ever repay them for that. I have spent a lot of time reflecting on how different my life could have been if my parents hadn’t made that decision. I am very grateful.

Who were the role models or mentors that inspired you personally and/or professionally?

After my parents moved to Canada they worked in health care until they retired. Ideally, they wanted me to work in health care too, but that line of work was just not for me. When I made the decision to go on a different path, I had no idea of the steps I had to take to grow my career. This is when I realized the importance of having a mentor. I needed someone that could help guide and coach me and, more importantly, someone who understood the path I am on. My mentors are angels on earth in my eyes.

Very few in my family have worked in a corporate environment and couldn't help me with my journey. But that's ok. They support me other ways. My mom is one of my inspirations. Watching her raise my two brothers and me, working multiple jobs and doing the best she could with the cards she was dealt. They say when life gives you lemons, make lemonade; that was my mom.

How important is Black representation in the workplace – and to see Black persons in leadership roles?

Representation is essential. When I was in my early 20s, I felt I was meant to do great things; but I put limitations on my aspirations as I did not see anyone that looked like me in leadership.

When we see others that look like you, you can identify and visualize yourself belonging in the role you aspire to. It’s exciting to know you can have your dream career but it needs to feel tangible. Having diversity in leadership can have a great impact on an organization. It will bring new perspectives, experience, and relatability to our teams. This can lead to attracting and retaining top talent, as well as new clients.