Nahid Hassan’s journey began with a difficult decision. As a young immigrant navigating the Canadian system, she chose to become a single mother to two young children. With her trust in God, she forged ahead with determination and persistence, refusing to bow to any obstacle.
Academic Pursuits and Dreams of Entrepreneurship
Hassan’s graduation from York University with honours demonstrated her commitment during her challenging marriage. Her academic pursuits in biochemistry were driven by her dream to create her own perfume and beauty products, a passion she shared with her children. Despite her aspirations to further her postgraduate education and follow in her father’s footsteps, her children always remained her top priority.
A Bold Step into Finance
After graduating and divorcing, Hassan’s confidence soared. “I have just graduated, and I have just gotten a divorce. I think I would be amazing here as a teller.” Hassan was hired on the spot. Thus began her journey in finance, and what an amazing journey she has had. What started that day with CIBC became more than a simple opportunity due to Hassan’s determination to succeed.
Hassan was quick to seize every opportunity that came her way. She started as a personal banker and was appointed as an acting manager, albeit temporarily, until a replacement was found. However, she performed so well during the six months as acting manager that she was offered a permanent role as a branch manager. The regional managers acknowledged her dedication, exceptional customer service, and leadership skills. Despite facing scepticism from some colleagues, Hassan persevered, overcame challenges, and honed her leadership abilities.
This became the hallmark of Hassan’s career. She would spend time at a branch, implementing specific strategies to improve its culture and revitalise morale, then be tapped on the shoulder to address similar issues at a new location. Her experience as a leader vs. a manager became evident throughout the results as she was promoted to lead small, medium, and large branches at RBC. Managers tell you what to do; leaders show you how to do it. Hassan has become one such leader, inspiring others in her field and community.
Finding Her True Calling in Credit Unions
When her journey brought her to Alberta from Toronto, it brought with it exposure to well-established and trusted credit unions. Contrary to the banks she was familiar with, credit unions treated their members like family. Hassan had found the point of union between her most deeply held motivations: her desire to connect with, uplift, and assist others in her community, and her joy and talent for finance and being a part of a client’s financial journey. She took the leap.
For the past six years, she has flourished as a branch manager at 1st Choice Savings and Credit Union. More than just a workplace, it has become a platform where she can make a real difference, helping individuals and families achieve financial security while fostering a sense of trust and belonging within the community.
A Commitment to Community
Community is of great importance to Hassan. She has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to using her expertise to better those around her through various Financial Wellness Series. She was recently recognized as the 2024 Lethbridge Chamber Volunteer of the Year, a testament to her commitment to the community.
Additionally, Hassan has made a home in Lethbridge. In her words,
“It’s a vibrant city, lots of opportunity here.”
After arriving with no connections, today she sees friendly faces everywhere she turns. A community has sprung up around Hassan, as it is her nature to build them.
New Dreams and a Bright Future
“Now that we are adults, will you pursue your dream?”
Her children asked, referring to her aspirations during her university years.
“No. I have different dreams now.”
Hassan replied without hesitation.
As the BIPOC Foundation continues to strengthen its ties within the community, the power of these relationships becomes evident not just in the outcomes but in the voices of those who have been part of this journey.
Nahid Hassan stands as an example of what is possible when you adopt perseverance, leadership, and community-building, shaping the financial and cultural scene in ways that will be felt for generations to come.
