Women of CGI in Canada: Driving leadership and innovation

We’re proud that we can look within our own community at CGI for inspiring women who propel each other and our company forward. At CGI, the success of women leaders who've helped the company grow has always been a source of inspiration.

As Rorisang Hlahatsi-Baloyi (MBA) , a specialist in leading innovation and development of scalable and user-centric technology platforms on our Emerging Technology team, says, “CGI’s environment is one where women can truly innovate, lead, and thrive.

I’ve enjoyed huge professional growth in my time at CGI. The company has supported me by putting me through some amazing professional development programs, and it’s also such an inclusive culture. There are so many supportive policies.

Being the only woman at the table is not an accomplishment, and what I’ve always appreciated about CGI in Canada is the strong female representation in leadership. They also display deep advocacy for gender equality. It’s clear how much women are supported, and support each other throughout the organization.”

Being an owner of your career and empowering others

Dana Greer , a Vice-President who oversees our 350-strong Digital Workplace Support organization, attributes her career success in no small part to the “incredible support team” around her during her 26 years at CGI.

“I’ve had the privilege of being mentored and supported by exceptional people in this organization, including many outstanding women,” she says, reflecting on how much they’ve “encouraged, inspired, and empowered” her to aim high and believe in herself and her leadership abilities.

“Whether it’s trying something new, taking a calculated risk, or even facing failure, they’ve taught me to embrace new challenges, and that these moments, though often difficult (and humbling!) are where true growth and evolution happen."

“I strive to pay it forward now,” she continues, telling us that she finds huge pleasure in mentoring a number of women across the company, both inside and outside of her own organization. She also actively participates in women-led professional groups and networks that share resources and opportunities that can help others advance in their careers.

“I'm committed to creating and maintaining a cycle of support and empowerment that enables women to achieve their full potential.”

For Félix Boudreault , a CGI business consultant and analyst, championing women in our workplace is absolutely vital. He says it’s of benefit to everybody, not just women, because future generations “need to receive the message that equality is not just an ideal, it is an achievable reality.

We have to celebrate women’s achievements in the workplace loudly. I see the challenges you overcome every day, the obstacles you break, the dreams you chase. The world needs your intelligence, your creativity, your passion. Never be afraid to be yourself, to take your place, to make your voice heard. You are capable of extraordinary things.”

Being creative and finding inspiration

For many of us, inspiration comes naturally from the remarkable women in our lives—our mothers and grandmothers, our incredible colleagues, and the leaders and mentors who have shaped our careers.

“I had the privilege of working with Diane Gutiw PhD when we were rolling out an executive dashboard project for Alberta Health,” says Senior Project Manager Faisal Shafiq, MA, PMP, Prosci . “Diane is committed to advancing technology responsibly, and although our interactions were brief, I was inspired by her leadership and skill set, and the way she managed the team and kept us all focused on the goal.”

“I am so thankful to the many people I’ve met at CGI who have helped and inspired me,” says Jasmine Jhand , who has been with us since graduating from NAIT in Computer Engineering Technology eight years ago.

“Many of these were women who helped me to define goals and pushed me to try my best and be confident in myself. I am really proud to now be a Senior Consultant, which was one of my goals. I love to provide the same guidance to others that I received, through things like our Women’s Mentoring programs. It is truly a rewarding feeling knowing that you have helped someone, and maybe even inspired them a bit too!”

But of course, it’s not only the women of CGI who inspire us with what we’re capable of. We think about the women in our industry who have done extraordinary things for tech, and women beyond it who have made extraordinary impacts on fights for justice and equality around the world.

“Naledi Pandor and Lillian Barnard - these women stand out as an inspiration to me,” says Rorisang, looking to Naledi’s dedication to advancing STEM education for women, and Lillian’s trailblazing leadership in the tech industry.

“I’m inspired enormously by Joan Clarke,” adds Félix, explaining that her work as a cryptanalyst at Bletchley Park during the Second World War was absolutely crucial to the breaking of the Enigma machine. “At a time when women were often relegated to secondary roles, Joan Clarke demonstrated exceptional intelligence and analytical skills. Her work has saved thousands of lives and hastened the end of war,” says Félix. “In fact, it’s even more relevant today. At a time when AI is increasingly shaping our world, her innovative approach and ability to solve complex problems is inspiring.

Her legacy reminds us of the importance of inclusion and equal opportunity in all fields, especially those that shape our future.”

Being supported and speaking up

At CGI, we believe in creating an environment where every partner has the opportunity to grow and succeed. No matter your background or journey, you belong here, and your voice matters. We encourage you to be ambitious, speak up, and share your ideas because we value your perspective and want to hear what you have to say.

“Women, be bold and trust in your potential,” says Dana, thinking about the people she’s watched succeed here more than they ever thought possible over the years. “Dream BIG because you have the power to lead, innovate, and inspire, and to keep breaking those barriers. And keep uplifting those around you, because we’re all stronger when we come together.”

"If I were to tell my younger self one thing, it would be to keep reaching for the stars,” says Jasmine. “There were times I was hard on myself, but those moments are what brought me here today.

I have had so many learning experiences come out of what I worried were big ‘mistakes’. I’ve really learned a lot in my career at CGI. It’s been a very fulfilling journey for me here, and I look forward to seeing where it takes me next!”

Explore a career with us at CGI!