for its inclusivity . The eightstrong FIL equities team has three female traders , and boasts backgrounds from Goa , Sierra Leone , England and Ireland . “ We had quite a moving day recently where we embraced World Culture day , took some time off the desk to share emotional stories of our backgrounds , experiences and journeys to where we are today . We even had a bake-off to showcase regional foods ,” she said . “ While everyone had a unique story to tell , it became clear that our diversity is a large part of why we work so well as a team and it was so interesting to hear the struggle and sacrifice that our parents and grandparents made to ensure that some of us were the first of our generation to go to university , to become as successful as we are today . It was really humbling .
“ There can be a lot of messaging that sometimes is missed , but people really resonate with personal stories and making these connections and getting to know each other also create a sense of inclusion and belonging . Collectively we will continue to push for diversity and inclusion
within trading at industry events , through the Sustainable Trading network , mentoring schemes , promoting mental health awareness , and working with kids / students from under-represented backgrounds , among many other things .
“ I want to be involved in pushing that change across the trading industry , and one of the most important ways I can do this is by championing the benefits of inclusion and diversity . Expanding our talent pools , promoting the inclusion of people from all different backgrounds . A lot of companies have their own policies , but how do we ensure that these are relevant to the trading desk itself ?
“ A trader cannot aspire to be a great trader on their own . Working within a team , learning from your colleagues , networking both internally and externally , are all so important to build confidence and to grow your reputation – and ultimately , that improves the end result for everyone , including your clients .
“ This is a great industry that doesn ’ t always get the best press , but I feel so lucky to be a part of it . I look forward to working with the next generation of traders , and one of my top priorities is to be a mentor for junior traders , both on my own desk and across the market .”
GRAINNE ’ S TOP TRENDS FOR 2023 l Efficiency l Interoperability l Innovation l Inclusion
Issue 74 // thetradenews . com // 47