Leah Yari (HBComm'23) Follows Her Passion from Dance to Finance 

In her valedictory speech as this year’s “Voice of the Class” at Lakehead Orillia’s convocation ceremony, Leah Yari shared an important and, perhaps, personal lesson with her fellow graduates:

"Although we all have an idea of the path we have shaped for ourselves, it's important to not get too caught up in what is planned. Being open to change and diversity can lead to growth we might not have been aware of in the present moment."

Growing up, Leah dreamed of becoming a professional dancer. Then, in her final year of secondary school, she had to choose  between pursuing a professional dance career or university studies. She thought she had found a way to do both. She would continue dancing while studying kinesiology at Wilfrid Laurier University, well known for its reputable dance team.

But Leah soon realized that she was not passionate about kinesiology. She spoke with a career counsellor and completed personality and aptitude tests, which revealed that she had a much stronger affinity for business and finance careers.

This came as no surprise to Leah, whose mother has been a successful businessperson. 

“My mom has always been the breadwinner in our family,” she says. “I have always been inspired by her, that she was able to support her family and be in a leadership role in finance.” 

Leah decided to pursue her Honours Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Global Entrepreneurship and Business Administration, at a much smaller institution—Lakehead University – Orillia.

“I love the feel of a small university, the extra attention from instructors, and I was able to stay at home,” she says.

“People ask me if I have had trouble finding jobs because Lakehead may not be considered a target school (an institution with a high number of finance hires), and I say, 'No, not at all. I wouldn’t have changed my experience.'”

Leah also says that studying at a smaller university gave her more unique experiences and the chance to get to know other professionals and instructors.

Dr. Isaam Dawood, for instance, left a lasting impression and has remained a support and a mentor.

“Dr. Dawood’s classes are very collaborative,” says Leah. "The lectures were discussion based, no PowerPoint presentations. And I felt my opinion was heard.” 

Another critical part of Leah’s experience in Lakehead’s business program was the Business Orillia Student Society (BOSS). Leah served in several executive roles with BOSS throughout her studies—as public relations officer, vice-president, and president. She says BOSS provided her with valuable opportunities to learn and network. 

“This puts you ahead when you’re applying for jobs. I think networking with professionals in the industry is what helped me find a job so quickly.”

Having worked in banking, and now underwriting for an insurance company in Toronto, Leah says she will continue to look for opportunities to grow in the world of finance and make meaningful contributions. 

“It’s important to me to continue to give back, creating community. And it’s important to surround yourself with people who push you to be a better version of yourself.”