Heidi Hemdan is the Manager of Newcomer Specialists for Ontario’s North and East region at RBC, where she leads a dedicated team in supporting newcomers as they embark on their journey to settle and thrive in Canada. With years of experience in financial services and a deep understanding of the challenges newcomers face, Heidi is passionate about helping individuals and families navigate their new life in Canada. In her role, Heidi oversees the implementation of RBC’s strategic newcomer initiatives, ensuring that her team offers personalized support, understanding credit, and accessing essential services. Through collaboration with community partners and leveraging RBC’s newcomer program, Heidi ensures that her clients have the tools they need to succeed financially and integrate smoothly into Canadian society. An advocate for inclusion and diversity, Heidi and team work closely with organizations across the region to expand outreach efforts and strengthen partnerships, thereby fostering a sense of belonging for newcomers. They are integral to the bank’s mission to “help newcomers feel at home by providing the right advice, banking solutions, and support systems so they can achieve their goals in Canada.” Heidi arrived in Canada 16 years ago and started her career in the Financial Services. She joined RBC 11 years ago and has held leadership roles in multiple branches across Ottawa prior to her current role. Heidi holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and political sciences.