MBA Education Path to Diversity Scholar Profile: Vivian Kwok

(One of a continuing series of profiles of participants in the MBA Education Path to Diversity (P2D) Scholarship Program, which enables employees from diverse backgrounds to advance their professional growth and career development.)

Vivian Kwok is Director of Mortgage Operations with Manulife Investment Management, Toronto, Ontario. She has more than 15 years of industry experience. She earned her Bachelor of Arts (Honors) in Economics and Geography from the University of Toronto.

MBA INSIGHTS: How did you hear about the Path to Diversity program?

VIVIAN KWOK: I heard about Path to Diversity program via MBA’s e-blast in 2018. I thought it’s a good way to tap into the scholarship program to pursue the CCMS designation.

INSIGHTS: What inspired you to get more involved?

KWOK: Sharing my knowledge as well as making a difference in the industry is what got me involved.

INSIGHTS: Did you find the application process to be easy?

KWOK: Yes the application process was very easy.

INSIGHTS: Have you had a mentor or mentors who encouraged/supported you?

KWOK: Yes, and it was my Vice President. Before he assumed his role in our group he and I were paired up in the mentorship program within our division and when this program became available, I mentioned to him that I’d like to pursue this and he has been very supportive.

INSIGHTS: How has the Path to Diversity scholarship benefited you, personally and professionally?

KWOK: I think the Path to Diversity scholarship program benefited me both personally and professionally as it offers a unique way for me to leverage it to pursue my CCMS designation, which adds value to my professional development. In terms of personal development, this program provides me a new perspective to look into other programs within MBA especially focused in diversity and inclusion. I’ve found the courses (including webinars) offered via MBA offer this unique opportunity.

INSIGHTS: What have you been able to bring back to your company as a result of the Path to Diversity program?

KWOK: I’ve always shared with my team some of the topics that were presented in the webinars specially focused in Diversity and Inclusion. I also encourage my colleague(s) to apply to the Path to Diversity scholarship program as well.

INSIGHTS: What would you say to someone considering applying for a Path to Diversity scholarship?

KWOK: This is an excellent opportunity to expand your learning horizons and enriched your learning trajectory both personally and professionally. I strongly encourage those who qualified to apply and check out other courses offered via MBA, especially with diversity and inclusion focused.

About the MBA Path to Diversity Scholarship Program
The Path to Diversity Scholarship Program recognizes existing industry professionals who are seeking to advance their careers through continuing education. Recipients receive a voucher to cover course registration fees, up to a maximum of $2,000, for popular MBA Education courses and designation programs. This education opportunity enables employees from diverse backgrounds to advance their professional growth and career development.

MBA recognizes that a strong, responsible and sustainable real estate finance industry requires a workforce that is reflective of our society at large.

For more information about the Path to Diversity Scholarship Program, click https://www.mba.org/conferences-and-education/mba-education/path-to-diversity.