Matching values: BMO Diversity in Finance Award recipient Zakiya Koya is empowered by the bank’s commitment to creating equal opportunities for all
When Zakiya Koya (BBA’27 candidate) received an email last fall telling her she had been awarded the BMO Diversity in Finance Award as one of its inaugural recipients, her first reaction was disbelief.
Then she decided that it was meant to be.
“Receiving this award told me that BMO recognizes the importance of inclusion in finance and is prepared to do something meaningful about it,” she says, adding, “Their core values match mine.”
Koya was “ecstatic” to align herself with a company that cares about representation, inclusion and “helping women feel seen and heard.”
The bank established the BMO Diversity in Finance Award as part of a $1.5 million gift, the largest BMO contribution in Schulich’s history, which also established the BMO Future Leaders Finance Lab. Valued at $5,000, the award is designed to support access to finance‑related careers and broaden participation in the Canadian finance sector by helping remove barriers for high‑achieving students who face systemic challenges. The four annual BMO Diversity in Finance Awards are distributed equally between third-year BBA and Master of Finance students with consideration given to candidates from communities historically underrepresented in the field.
“We know that cost, access to networks and representation continue to shape who sees a future for themselves in the industry,” says Helen Seibel, BMO’s Head, Employee and Community Giving. “By providing direct financial support at critical stages of students’ academic journeys, this award allows recipients to focus on their studies, skill development and career aspirations. More importantly, it signals that they belong in finance, and that their perspectives and lived experiences are valued.”
Koya set a finance career goal while still a student in high school but admits to finding the journey a struggle. “I often find myself in spaces where the voices of women and people of colour are not fully represented,” she says.
Receiving the BMO Diversity in Finance Award assured her she was on the right track.
“The support of BMO, an organization committed to breaking down these barriers and advancing women in leadership, is both empowering and motivating. This award not only affirms my own journey but also gives me the confidence to continue pushing for more inclusive leadership in finance,” Koya says.
Since receiving the award, she has joined Junior Achievement Canada as a volunteer, helping to teach high school students about finance and encouraging them to consider careers in the field.
As a mentor, she hopes to do for the next generation what BMO is doing for her.
“I’m excited to be part of a community that is actively working to break down barriers and create equal opportunities for all, she says. “I look forward to the impact we can all make together.”
The Schulich School of Business turns 60 in 2026 and we are celebrating with the Schulich Student Access Fund. To help more high-potential students experience all Schulich has to offer, contact Anthony Tomizza, Acting Director, Advancement at advancement@schulich.yorku.ca.
