What Impact Really Means: Reflections from Impact Investing Intern, Sierra

This winter, Sierra Haziza joined us as an Impact Investing Intern — and quickly became a thoughtful contributor to projects that explored how capital can be more inclusive, intentional, and equity-driven. As she wraps up her time with us, Sierra reflects on what drew her to SVX, the lessons she’s carrying forward, and the small moments that made a big impact. We’re proud to share her words with our community.

What inspired you to join SVX?

"Last summer, I had the chance to attend a panel by SVX Colombia at the Social Finance Forum, and I was struck by how the organization approaches impact from such a holistic and interconnected perspective.  It was clear to me that SVX was a place where change was being driven with depth and intentionality, and I wanted to be part of that." 

What's the most valuable lesson you learned during your time here?

"Understanding that strategy is not separate from practice. My manager, Paula, is deeply intentional in her approach, always grounding our work in the needs of people and communities, rather than focusing solely on outcomes. Her intentionality was reflected in the small, daily decisions that shaped how goals impacted communities. SVX enforced that a fund, a project, or a strategy is not a collection of final outcomes, but rather a series of decisions that can each be leveraged to build something that creates greater access and equity. This shifted the way I think about impact: less as a distant outcome or goal, and more as something we are constantly reinforcing or disrupting through every compounding choice."

What's next for you, and how will you take what you've learned at SVX into your future endeavours?

"This summer, I will be joining the Propel Impact Analyst Program at FirstOntario, where I will be supporting ESG strategy. I am looking forward to deepening my understanding of how sustainability and impact are integrated into financial systems, an area that SVX helped me approach with greater nuance. Following that, I will be entering my final year at McMaster University, completing my degree in Integrated Business and Humanities with a minor in Sustainability."

What's your favourite memory or moment from your time at SVX?

"I have so many wonderful memories from my time at SVX, but one of my favourites was the first design jam we held for the Canadian Women’s Foundation research project. It was such a unique opportunity to break down what goes into building a fund, from how entrepreneurs find out about it and apply, to what happens after they receive financing. Reflecting on my time at SVX, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such a thoughtful, purpose-driven team."

Thank You, Sierra

As Sierra moves on to the next chapter of her journey — joining the Propel Impact Analyst Program and completing her final year at McMaster — we’re excited to see the values she brought to SVX continue to shape the field of impact investing. Her clarity, intentionality, and care have left a meaningful mark on our team. Thank you, Sierra, for your contributions — and for reminding us that every choice is a chance to build a more equitable future. We can’t wait to see what you do next.