An engagement model for others to follow
Photographer: Rodrigo Moreno, 2010
Kwame Daaku, Scotia Capital, Associate Director and United Way GenNext Cabinet Member
In his short experience with United Way Toronto's GenNext® Cabinet, Kwame Daaku has seen first-hand the good work Generation Y can accomplish when they're engaged. The GenNext model engages the next generation of philanthropic leaders in the same way corporate training programs develop tomorrow's business leaders.
"I see GenNext as a way to get young professionals to understand their community's needs, to see more of what goes on in Toronto," Daaku explains. "Many people don't know the depth and breadth of what United Way does. When I take future leaders into the communities United Way serves, they really see it as something more than just basic needs."
The first few years of young peoples' careers are important. They are forging their business images. Fortunately, Scotiabank is very supportive of United Way and GenNext efforts. "Scotiabank management recognizes individuals for their leadership, that's important. It's a positive reflection on the participants and on the bank as a whole."
The example set by Scotiabank's support of GenNext is spreading to other firms across the city. "People want to help, they just don't know how." GenNext is the right answer.
