Jeanette Stock

When it comes to boosting diversity in Toronto’s tech ecosystem it takes more than just talk to make a real difference. Jeanette Stock knows that all too well. As the founder of Venture Out — a LGBTQA+ group that connects people with career opportunities, role models and more — her team works tirelessly to champion inclusivity across the city. This year Stock and her all-volunteer team will launch Canada’s only tech conference focused on building an inclusive and diverse future for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Asexual/Aromantic (LGBTQA+) youth and professionals.

Her hard work has not gone unnoticed in the tech community. Recently she’s been named an RBC Venture for Canada Social Innovation Fellow and named the 2017 “Telus LGBTQ Innovator of the Year.”

“Find your tribe, find your people. I’ve absolutely been floored by how much people rally around each other and lift each other up. Finding my group of people has been the thing that has made the biggest difference.”

To learn more about how women across Canada are influencing the tech industry visit The Review.