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Cara Lew
Deputy Director at Global Nation | ex-McKinsey | Economist
Professional Background
Cara Lew is a prominent economist and former strategy consultant known for her impactful work in both the private and public sectors. With a robust background in economics and public policy, Cara has made significant contributions to various organizations and initiatives aimed at improving community integration and budgeting strategies during challenging times. As a consultant at McKinsey & Company, she played a key role in launching the first-ever mental health initiative within the Canadian practice, where she facilitated brainstorming sessions and organized speaker series to foster a culture of openness and support among colleagues.
Most recently, Cara has embraced the entrepreneurial landscape as she completes her MBA at the prestigious London Business School. During her time there, she was carefully selected by one of the largest early-stage venture capital platforms to develop her own business, which showcases her entrepreneurial spirit and innovative mindset. Currently, Cara is building a think/do tank named Global Nation, where she serves as the Deputy Director, focusing on fostering inclusive policies and promoting a global perspective.
Education and Achievements
Cara's educational background is impressive, with an MBA from the esteemed London Business School, complemented by an MA in Economics from the University of Toronto. Her undergraduate education was a dual-focus Hon. BA, where she studied Economics and Contemporary Asian Studies at the University of Toronto’s Trinity College. Furthermore, Cara has advanced her language skills through intensive study in Chinese at the Beijing Language and Culture University, highlighting her commitment to understanding global perspectives.
Throughout her career, Cara has demonstrated a profound dedication to understanding complex global affairs. Notably, she led a research group that examined the democratization process in Yangon, Myanmar, which resulted in receiving a grant exceeding $25,000 from the University of Toronto. This endeavor not only underscores her analytical capabilities but also her passion for engaging with transformative global issues.
In addition to her work in global affairs, Cara has actively volunteered with the Century Initiative, a non-profit organization committed to sustainable immigration growth in Canada. Here, she has provided invaluable insights specifically on education and early childhood supports, further solidifying her expertise in public policy.
Passion for Mental Health and Well-Being
Cara has a heartfelt interest in mental health awareness, which led her to spearhead the mental health initiative during her tenure at McKinsey. With a combination of strategic insights and personal commitment, she created a supportive environment for her colleagues, demonstrating her belief in the importance of mental well-being in the workplace. Her approach to mental health is characterized by empathy and a collaborative spirit, ensuring that resources and support systems are accessible to everyone.
Endurance Sports
Outside her professional pursuits, Cara maintains an active lifestyle characterized by her passion for endurance sports. Having competed in triathlons from the age of 11 and completing a marathon with an impressive finish time of 3 hours and 49 minutes, she exemplifies determination and resilience, qualities that she carries into her professional and personal life. Cara balances her rigorous athletic pursuits with her professional ambitions, showcasing her ability to work efficiently while also embracing the joys of life.
Cara’s diverse interests and multifaceted background make her a credible and inspiring figure in the fields of economics, public policy, and mental health. Her ability to blend rigorous analytical thinking with empathetic engagement distinguishes her in the industry. She continuously seeks to deepen her understanding of the world, fostering a holistic approach to understanding complex issues and their implications for communities both locally and globally.
As Cara Lew furthers her journey through the realms of economics, entrepreneurship, and public policy, she invites anyone interested in her work or those simply wishing to engage in thoughtful conversation to reach out. Her passion for knowledge, community growth, and personal well-being makes her a thought leader and advocate worth connecting with.
