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Megan Aird

Director, Communications, The Daniels Corporation

Sector: Private Sector
Discipline: Development
Year: 2023

Megan Aird

Director, Communications, The Daniels Corporation

Magic Moment: One ‘magic moment’ that profoundly stands out to me was the opening of the Regent Park Athletic Grounds in Toronto. It was early in my career, and I played a leadership role in collaborating with MSLE Foundation to mark this important milestone in the Regent Park revitalization that required creativity, passion and emphasized the importance of working together with great partners. This milestone represented not only a significant achievement in my career but also a transformative experience for the community. On the day of the Grand Opening, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation. I witnessed the joy and sense of belonging on the faces of the kids as they stepped onto the new field, courts and rink. This proud milestone not only shaped my career but also left an indelible mark on the lives of countless young individuals in Regent Park. It serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of accessible and inclusive spaces, and the importance of leadership in creating lasting positive change.

Key Influence: 
My Parents: My major influencers have been my parents, who have been instrumental in shaping my perspective on leadership. They have consistently emphasized the value of building strong relationships, following one’s passion, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Their unwavering support and guidance have instilled in me a deep appreciation for the significance of meaningful connections, pursuing what truly inspires me, and prioritizing personal well-being alongside professional success. Their guidance has not only influenced my approach to leadership but have also served as a solid foundation for my personal and professional growth.

Next Big Challenge As An Industry: I believe one of the ongoing challenges we need to continue to tackle is creating a more inclusive and accessible environment for all. We should prioritize breaking down barriers and ensuring equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of their background or abilities. This requires a multi-faceted approach, including designing and implementing inclusive infrastructure, fostering diverse and representative leadership, and promoting affordable and accessible housing options. By actively involving marginalized communities in decision-making processes and implementing policies that prioritize inclusivity, we can build a City that embraces diversity, empowers its residents, and sets an example for others to follow.

On Championing Others…: As a passionate storyteller, I champion others in the industry by amplifying their voices and highlighting their achievements through the power of narrative. I believe in the power of narratives to inspire and empower individuals, especially women, to pursue leadership positions in the urban land industry. Through my storytelling, I strive to highlight the achievements and experiences of diverse professionals, amplifying their voices and providing a platform for their stories to be heard. By sharing these narratives, I aim to create a sense of community, foster connections, and ultimately drive positive change, encouraging more women to step into leadership roles and contribute their unique perspectives to the field.

Secret Talent: I’m an animal whisperer.

One word that captures you: Tenacious