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International Women’s Day – Narisa Dasilva shares what believing in yourself can make possible

This year, for International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating some of the amazing women who are turning possibilities into realities. Today, we’re sharing our conversation with Narisa Dasilva, Assistant Store Manager at Rogers who has been balancing it all to achieve her dreams. Whether it’s managing a retail store, going to school or starting a new side business, she makes it look easy. 

We asked Narisa questions to learn more about how she took hard work, determination and the support of her family to build a strong foundation for her future. Here’s what she had to say. 

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?  

International Women’s Day not only reminds me to continue to appreciate the incredible role models in my life like my mother and grandmothers, but it also reminds me to celebrate the outstanding women who have fought for the rights and equality of women all around the world. It is a day to reflect what we have done and where we are continuing to go.  

Tell us about your role at Rogers.  

I am currently the Assistant store manager of the flagship store at Yonge and Dundas – Rogers 302! I have made my way through the retail cycle by starting off as a part-time sales representative when I was only 18 years old. Since then I have worked to obtain different positions within retail, including assistant store manager and even store manager roles.  

In May 2021 I will be, excitedly, moving into the New Grad Leadership Program in the Human Resources department. This leadership program allows me to explore different sections of the department for a year before choosing a path that I am most passionate about.  

Can you share any details around how Rogers has supported you, this last year or over the course of your career?  

Since I started my career at Rogers when I was still young it shaped me into who I am today and steered me in the direction I want to go in. When I started University, I had no idea what I wanted to do but Rogers helped me mould my career with the continuous development opportunities.  

Being at 302 has been my favorite move within the company so far – it has allowed me to succeed in aspects even outside of the retail environment. I’ve had the opportunity to act in many different productions within Rogers (from internal to external campaigns). Rogers 302 has allowed me to make connections with many different departments internally, for example Digital Marketing, Human Resources, Rogers for Business, Today’s Shopping Choice, etc.  

Who has been an inspiration in your life, and why?  

My biggest inspirations in my life are my late grandfathers. My mom’s father was one of the smartest men I ever knew, and I always learned something with every single conversation. He was a school principal and he always reminded us every day how important gaining knowledge was. He taught me to respect books since they are the source of knowledge. My father’s father always inspired my soul. Him and I connected on a different level because we both had a passion for music. I gained my confidence for performing because he believed and pushed me to always reach for the stars and use my talent as much as I can.  

What would you say to young girls of today?  

What would I say to young girls today? Always believe in yourself. Your entire lives people will come, and people will go. Some will support you and some won’t, but you need to make sure you are always supporting and believing in yourself. Remind yourself you can do it and you are worthy every single day.  

Tell us a little more about yourself, and any personal interests or details you’d like to share.  

I completed my undergrad in Business and Society and a certificate in Human Resources at York University in 2020. It was not an easy year to graduate – but I did it and I am currently taking courses towards my CHRP Designation (Certified Human Resources Professional).  

Outside of work, I keep busy with my huge Caribbean-European family and my handsome four-month-old puppy. 

I also recently opened my own business called Love Box TO! My business specializes in exploding gift boxes for every single occasion. From anniversaries to birthdays, I create completely customizable baskets to reflect the interests and personalities of the recipients. With my signature black boxes and complimentary polaroid photos, I’ve gained the interest of quite a few people – acquiring five orders within two hours of my soft launch! I officially launched on March 1st.