Get to Know Our Sustainability Team at Western!
Today, we join the global movement in celebrating National Earth Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness and taking action to protect our planet and promote environmental sustainability.
Avelia Stewart, Director, Social Impact and Internal Communications
Who is Avelia Stewart and what’s her role at Western?
Avelia Stewart is a trailblazing sustainability professional who is leading the charge for change at Western Financial Group. As the Director, Social Impact and Internal Communications, Avelia is responsible for developing and implementing innovative strategies that promote sustainability and ensure that it remains at the forefront of all business operations. She is a valuable member of the People and Culture leadership team, and her work is core to the sustainability of Western.
What is Avelia's professional background and experience in sustainability?
Avelia's extensive background in human resources, spanning over 15 years, has given her a wealth of experience working in diverse industries such as insurance, technology, manufacturing, and advertising. This breadth of experience has equipped her with a unique perspective that she brings to her work with executives, as well as an empathetic approach that helps her connect with talent at all levels. Additionally, Avelia's completion of a Sustainability Leadership certificate from the University of Toronto demonstrates her passion for sustainability, which is evident in all aspects of her work. Avelia's impressive experience and deep knowledge in human resources, coupled with her unwavering dedication to sustainability, positions to provide strategic oversight for sustainability at Western.
How does Avelia's work on sustainability align with Western Financial Group's values?
Avelia's work on sustainability is aligned with Western’s core values of making a positive impact on society and the environment. She is a strategic driver of business success and her ability to stay ahead of the curve and lead the charge for change has earned her a reputation as a trailblazer at Western. By promoting sustainability in all aspects of the business, Avelia is contributing to the long-term success and sustainability of Western.
Cheska Ronquillo, Senior Consultant, Sustainability
Who is Cheska Ronquillo and what is her role at Western?
Cheska Ronquillo is the Senior Sustainability Consultant at Western, responsible for shaping the organization's trajectory towards environmental resilience and social responsibility. She has a background in developing and executing energy efficiency and greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation strategies for Canadian clientele in property management, municipal, industrial, and Indigenous communities.
What is Cheska's approach to sustainability at Western?
Cheska leverages a holistic approach to sustainability by integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics into Western’s various business operations. She is committed to innovation and excellence and is dedicated to growing a culture of sustainability that goes above and beyond compliance and strives towards excellence.
What are some of Cheska's accomplishments in the field of sustainability?
Cheska has demonstrated an innate ability to translate sustainability aspirations into tangible, impactful solutions. As a professional engineer, she has facilitated energy-efficient building conversions at scale and crafted GHG reduction pathways. She also advises on climate risk management frameworks and fosters stakeholder initiatives for both internal and external audiences.
Together, we are setting the new standard for industry-wide innovation and making a positive impact. With our combined efforts, we are positioning Western for the future as a trailblazer ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for all!
