What could the world look like if women were uplifted and inspired to believe in themselves and their abilities from an early age?
Aritzia and Minerva BC recognize the importance of supporting and building up the confidence of high school and university women newly entering the workforce.
It can feel daunting preparing for first interviews, first jobs, and exploring potential career paths. We share the belief that this is where mentorship is critical because you cannot be what you cannot see. With the Power of Confidence, Aritzia welcomed Minerva BC into their Vancouver offices to share stories and make connections – one conversation at a time.
Leading by example
As Lead Supporter of Minerva BC’s Learning to Lead™ youth program, this spring Aritzia generously hosted 29 young girls at their Vancouver Support office campus – creating a space for deep reflection and meaningful connection.
To start the day, a panel of women leaders from Aritzia, comprising different backgrounds and experiences, imparted learnings, and insights from their own career journeys with vulnerability and compassion.
They shared stories of their journeys building personal confidence to reassure that one’s career path is rarely linear, emphasizing that feeling uncertain of your career direction is not only normal, but necessary.
Your first, second, or even third job does not dictate where you go next. You do.
“Getting the chance to engage with the Aritzia team and learn more about the company was incredibly inspiring. Experiences like these have helped me grow both personally and professionally, and I am very grateful for everything Minerva makes possible for young women.”
Kaylee, 2026 Power of Confidence youth leader
Navigating different ways of working is an important skill, especially if you’re just starting your career. Following the panel, Aritzia led the group through the Insights Assessment to give space for each youth leader to reflect upon their unique strengths and work styles. The excitement was palpable as they eagerly mapped out their strengths alongside each other to learn how to improve collaboration and communication with people who think and work differently.
But, the day wouldn’t be complete without some fashion advice from Aritzia.
The day included a conversation on the value of conveying confidence through intentional personal presentation. Afterall, it only takes 7 seconds for the brain to form a first impression – often before a word is even spoken.
The speaker shared strategies for achieving a professional and elevated look that best positions us for success when we step into an interview or start a new job. Colours, shoes and accessories are all important details that can be used to express our unique personality and individuality. It isn’t necessary to spend money on an extensive wardrobe – simple and timeless capsule pieces that fit well and can be easily mixed and matched are all we need to start our career with confidence.
Recognizing that networking can be a nerve-wracking experience – afterall, awkward pauses are never fun – Aritzia thoughtfully organized a speed networking session with women leaders from the company. Each youth leader had the invaluable opportunity to meet one-on-one and learn from women at different stages of their careers.
It was a session full of animated discussions, insightful questions and advice drawn from lived experiences. As one youth leader shared, “Hearing from such accomplished people and getting a glimpse into Aritzia’s culture was incredibly motivating, and we all left feeling energized and excited for what lies ahead in our own career journeys.”
Thank you
We are so grateful to Aritzia for not only making the Power of Confidence event possible, but for their support extending beyond a single day.
This year’s Power of Confidence marks a 10-year partnership between Aritzia and Minerva BC’s Learning to Lead™ program. It is a partnership rooted in responsibility, accountability and reciprocity that has allowed Aritzia and Minerva to walk in step to help young girls and women realize their leadership potential.
Importantly, this partnership serves as a reminder that change requires community.
Thank you to our community partners and supporters who show up each day and continue to strive towards a world that uplifts women in leadership.
Thank you, Aritzia, for showing what a partnership cultivated with intention, authenticity and compassion can accomplish – a room full of young women eager and inspired to step into the next chapter of their lives with confidence.
