Quote I Live By:
If the path before you is clear, you’re probably on someone else’s.
-Joseph Campbell
For Rita Parikh, leadership has never been a straight line. Her career has been shaped by curiosity, a commitment to justice, and a deep belief that systems can, and must, work for everyone.
“I thought I would be a journalist,” she says. “But after graduation, I realized I was drawn to international development, and in particular, women’s and human rights.”
Rita’s early career took her across Asia, the Caribbean and the South Pacific, working for Canadian NGOs collaborating with brilliant organizations on the ground to further their struggles for food, security, reproductive health, and women’s rights. Alongside that, she explored law and justice closer to home, serving as a part-time investigator for the Human Rights Commission. “I loved it. It let me pretend I was somehow a legal professional,” she recalls with a smile. Those experiences gave her a foothold in the world of regulatory systems and administrative justice, which would eventually become a defining thread in her career.
Back in Canada, Rita’s interest in governance began early. In her mid-20s, she joined the board of Mountain Equipment Co-op, drawn by concerns about environmental sustainability and ethical sourcing. “I wanted to marry my passions for justice with the governance world,” she explains. Over time, she became a recognized leader in the non-profit and cooperative sectors, shaping organizations that focus on community economic development, housing, financial inclusion, and climate action.
Her journey with Vancity began with admiration long before she became a member. Visiting their boardroom in her 20s, she was struck by the credit union’s commitment to the marginalized, community development and member livelihoods. “I remember leaving there thinking I cannot believe there’s a financial institution so committed to transforming economic systems,” she says. In 2016, she ran for the board of directors and was elected. Today, she chairs Vancity, guiding the credit union through challenges that impact communities across British Columbia.
Rita credits much of her worldview to her upbringing. “I identify as a hyphenated Canadian—someone of Indian heritage, a woman of color rooted in this country,” she says. Rita’s parents moved to Canada in 1960, and her family always emphasized justice, empathy, and awareness of global struggles. That perspective has informed how she approaches leadership, decision-making, and mentorship.
Awarded as one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women by the Women's Executive Network (WXN), she continues to invest in others. She recently launched Wild Purpose Executive Coaching, supporting purpose-driven leaders, and mentors young women through WXN’s network. For her, creating space for others is as important as any boardroom decision.
Looking forward, she sees opportunity in collective action. “If we support each other, we are all collectively flourishing,” she says. Her vision is clear: resilient communities, equitable systems, and the next generation of leaders empowered to make change.
Q&A
Q- This year’s International Women’s Day theme is ‘Give to Gain.’ What does that phrase mean to you personally?
A- We all stand to gain so much by lifting each other up. Supporting each other strengthens communities, innovation, and economies. Giving to gain is about collective flourishing.
Q- What’s one lesson you had to learn the hard way that shaped the woman you are today?
A- Believing I belonged at the corporate board table. Early in my career, I doubted whether someone like me, a small brown woman without an MBA, could lead or make a difference. Over time, I realized my experiences mattered, especially in the corporate world and I needed to trust myself.
Q- Who is a woman you deeply admire, and what about her inspires you most?
A- My mom. She’s 89, lived through the Quit India campaign as a child, and remains an activist. She taught me about justice, empathy, and the importance of standing up for what’s right.
Q- What’s one thing you hope more women give themselves permission to do?
A- There is no more important time to be rebellious. We’re taught to forgive, nurture, and self-correct, but women need no permission to express, to challenge, and to claim our space unapologetically.