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We are Canada’s largest network of women, allies, and leading finance organizations, united by a shared purpose to elevate women in the finance sector. Together, we champion talent at every stage of the career journey: empowering individuals and shaping leaders; transforming individual success into industry-wide impact; and advancing a stronger, more competitive finance sector for all.

Join us as we continue to power this progress, together.

Purpose:

Elevate women in the finance sector to advance prosperity for all.

Mission:

We connect and equip women, and the allies and organizations who champion them, through programs, partnerships, and community that transform individual success into industry-wide impact.

From Women in Capital Markets (WCM) to VersaFi

As we have grown our community, what has never wavered is our commitment to elevating women in finance.

We are deeply proud of our roots in Capital Markets, but recognize that the dynamics and complexity of the finance sector have evolved since we were founded in 1995. We have become VersaFi – a nod to the diversity of members we serve in finance, from the sell side, to the buy side, fintech and those interacting with these disciplines.

Achieving our mission

Our community has grown to more than 4,200 members and 50 corporate partners across the country representing the finance sector, insurance companies, pension plans, regulatory agencies, exchanges, and advisory firms.

As Canada’s largest network of women, allies, and leading finance organizations, we are united by a shared purpose to elevate women in the finance industry. Together, we champion talent at every stage of the career journey: empowering individuals and shaping leaders; transforming individual success into industry-wide impact; and advancing a stronger, more competitive finance sector for all.

We connect and equip women, and the allies and organizations who champion them, through programs, partnerships, and community that transform individual success into industry-wide impact.

Equip women with the tools and networks to thrive, advance, and succeed

Leverage data, insights, and partnerships to inspire a network effect that builds a stronger and more inclusive finance sector

Partner with organizations and leaders to strengthen the sector’s ability to attract, retain, and advance top talent

Support our Mission

VersaFi champions a dynamic, gender-inclusive community where women from all backgrounds and identities thrive, succeed and belong. We connect and equip women, and the allies and organizations who champion them, through programs, partnerships, and community that transform individual success into industry-wide impact.

Become a VersaFi Member

A VersaFi membership has countless benefits. Interested in learning more? Let’s chat!

Engage with our Community

Take advantage of opportunities to network, grow your skills and advance your career through our programming and events

Access VersaFi Insights and Analysis

Our research and reports provide insights into challenges, opportunities and trends impacting women in the finance sector.

Our Journey

Our 30 year history has been impactful, focused on changing the paradigm for women in the finance sector.

Women in Capital Markets was founded by Roberta Ann Benson, Marianne Harris, Heather-Anne Irwin, Susanne Monteith, Heather Stewart, Constance Sugiyama and Ruth Woods.

Their goal was to change the paradigm for women by raising awareness around the inequities faced, and by demonstrating the importance of inclusion across the sector.

During the first decade of operations, WCM was a small, volunteer-run organization focused specifically on the Capital Markets sector. Presidents served mostly one-year terms, and worked with their peers and industry experts to create solutions for the acceleration of diversity through advocacy, research, programming and recruitment. The inaugural Champions of Change Gala was held in 2001.

WCM expanded and focused more on strategic outcomes through its Board and newly formed Advisory Council (2007). The team launched a Mentorship Program (1998) and launched the WCM Leadership Awards (2007). In 2010 the Return to Bay Street and Executive Leaders programs were established, followed by the Emerging Leaders Program in 2014.

WCM evolved to a large professionally-run national NFP, resulting in new programming and expansion of its partners and members. Regional Steering Committees were created, starting with Montreal in 2016, followed by Calgary, BC and Ontario. 2018 brought the Aspire and Elevate Programs and our Job Shadow Day events expanded to include Montreal (2019), Calgary and BC (2022). Our Research team developed industry-changing reports on topics like parental leave and psychological safety.

While our name has changed, our commitment to accelerating equity for women in finance is stronger than ever. Through innovative initiatives, strategic partnerships and ongoing support we will continue to empower women and drive meaningful change across the sector.

We’re deeply proud of our roots in Capital Markets, but recognize that the finance sector has evolved significantly since the organization was founded nearly 30 years ago. This new brand identity better reflects the diversity and complexity of the finance sector we serve, enabling us to grow our community and to double down on important advocacy efforts. It’s a bold step forward, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds.