SHELBY AUSTIN: I didn't grow up in analytics.
I've grown up as a lawyer.
I had started a company that used technology, particularly
software, to lower legal bills.
And that was the reason for this company.
So when I came over to Deloitte, my job
was to integrate this company--
until that day where the phone rang, and I got
told that they needed a new analytics leader.
And so what did I do then?
I studied what analytics meant.
And it took me years to understand
that I didn't need to feel insecure about the fact
that I wasn't a data scientist.
I think technology can be a tough area for women to work.
And so I would encourage everyone
as they think about the trying times, the difficult times
that the more we can be resilient,
the better off we are.
We certainly have a place here as we
do in every technical field.
Seeing women rise in the field will
mean we have more women in the field.
And I think the reason why it's so important
to have more women in the field of analytics
and AI is because we need more diversity of thought.
And we get that naturally when we have role model
diversity through gender, race, religion, et cetera.
So it's not just about having more women,
but it's about having more of everyone
and truly having more inclusive diversity in our ranks.
I think that I would tell any girl,
you can be whoever you want to be.
But in this life, you have to find purpose.
And for me, I found purpose through technology.
And so for me, that's my purpose is catalyzing
the growth of our country for the betterment
of all Canadians.
And I would suggest that analytics is a fine field
to find it in because there's nothing but opportunity
in this field right now.
And as a result, I think that it's a great choice
for all girls and women.
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