Janet Bannister is one of our 30 Inspirational Women in Canadian FinTech and Finance!
Janet (@jebannister) is a partner at Real Ventures, where she has led investment in fintech companies like Dream Payments, a mobile payments platform. She is also the founder of Kijiji, the number one classifieds website in Canada. Here, she shares her best financial advice, opens up about her impressive career, and honours the women who inspired her along the way.
What are you most proud of accomplishing in your career?
JB: I have been very fortunate in my life and career. I have had the privilege of working with many amazing people while helping create new businesses and reinvent existing businesses. The thing that I am most proud of is the impact I have had on other people; I have had the opportunity to coach, mentor and advise many people who are overcoming obstacles, reaching their potential, and fulfilling their ambitions. That is the most rewarding aspect of my career.
Who were the women that served as role models in your life?
JB: All women who follow their passions and hearts inspire me! Whether it be teaching, medicine, banking, or raising a family, I am inspired by women who do what they love to the best of their abilities. I especially relate and feel inspired by women entrepreneurs. Building a business is hugely rewarding, but it is also filled with many “bumps in the road” and it tests entrepreneurs’ resilience and determination every day. How we react to these challenges is what makes us stronger as women.
What was the best financial advice that you’ve ever received?
JB: Live within your means and never take a job just for a big paycheque.
Thanks for sharing your story, Janet! To learn about more finfluencers, check out our 30 Inspirational Women in Canadian FinTech and Finance.