Spotlight on our Network

We spent some time chatting with Lime Connect Network member and longtime volunteer, Manmit Pandori, on what drives him to give back and his thoughts on the changing landscape of the disability space.

Hi Manmit! Thanks for chatting with us! Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I was born and raised in the Toronto area, but my parents are originally from India. Currently, I am working as an Associate at TD Securities, while pursuing my CFA designation and writing the Level II exam in June of next year. Prior to the commencement of my career, I completed my BBA degree from Schulich School of Business earlier this April where I was involved in a number of different activities both on and off campus.

I was also honored last year to be the recipient of the TD Securities Lime Scholarship which further fueled my dedication and passion to be actively involved in the enhancement of Lime awareness across Canada.

You've been a volunteer with Lime Connect for quite some time. Tell us how you became involved with the organization.

I have had the privilege of being a volunteer with Lime for about 3 years now, and I am extremely proud of the progress the organization has made in Canada thus far. My journey with Lime started after I attended a Lime Event. The presentation captured my interest and I really wanted to learn more about how I could spread the word on opportunities available through Lime.

During my time so far, I have been a part of the Canadian volunteer group that focuses on educational outreach, such as speaking with students at various campuses, along with being involved in various annually held Lime events.

What's been the biggest change in the disability landscape/growth with the organization since you've been involved with Lime Connect?

I would have to say that the biggest change for me, over the past few years, has been the unbelievable outreach Lime has participated in across Canada. When I first started out with Lime, the development of being recognized at various campuses across Ontario was still ongoing, a complete change from how things are currently where we are able to meet with candidates from British Columbia to Ontario and invite them to attend our events. I have also seen insurmountable growth from employers as well. It seems that nowadays opportunities for persons with disabilities has significantly increased and been embraced, and I sincerely believe that this is due to Lime's partners who are a prime example of much needed positive change.

What changes would you like to see happen within the disability space in the next few years?

I would like to see more knowledge mobilization in the disability sector, especially within the next few years. I say this because our number of strong candidates has continued to consistently rise, and I am confident that the importance of understanding what each individual needs is becoming more crucial. Other than that, I also feel that the disability landscape is on a tremendous path, and with the immense support and assistance of organizations like Lime, it is bound to reach new heights in success throughout the coming years.

Anything else you'd like to share with us?

It has honestly been such a humbling experience to see the vast growth that Lime has made in a short time span, and I am really excited about building new partnerships with new volunteers that come forward at various events. Personally, I have learned that one's disability can teach you a great deal about the strength you may not know you ever had. The key is to remain confident and always remember that the most important thing is determining how to tackle various obstacles in life, as opposed to the obstacle itself. Stay positive and never give up - remember that support is always around you, and with hard work and determination you can do anything, abled or disabled, and especially the latter.

Manmit (left) and other Lime Connect volunteers from the Schulich marketing team.