This week we’re celebrating 18-year-old Flawnson Tong, one of only four students selected to participate in a new CIBC internship program.
A recent graduate of St. Robert Catholic Secondary School in the York Catholic District School Board, Flawnson spent his summer working with CIBC in partnership with The Knowledge Society, Canada’s leading innovation program for students. Flawnson has had access to some of the best resources and mentors in the industry, giving him the opportunity to work with new, emerging technologies like augmented reality and nanotechnology.
“CIBC has been one of the most valuable experiences of my life,” said Flawnson. “Getting to work with CIBC Digital showed me the side of banks most people don’t know exists… The concentration of innovation and start-up vibes has left me inspired for more.”
Flawnson will be attending the University of Waterloo for Arts and Business this Fall, where he will also be working with the Waterloo Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute to conduct research in blockchain technology. Upon graduation, he has plans to start a company in one of his fields of expertise, such as digital currency.
For the first time, CIBC has expanded its coop program to help develop young talent ranging from 14-18 years old. Its partnership with the Knowledge Society allows students to work on innovative projects with CIBC employees like augmented reality, 3-D modelling, the future of digital currencies, and more.
“Working with students to help support and develop Canadian talent is key to CIBC,” said Aayaz Pira, Senior Vice President, CIBC Digital. “Our approach is to have them dive into the business and offer their unique perspectives on how to innovate for our clients, working together with teams across the bank, having access to resources and mentors that can support their development.”
Join us in congratulating our former Catholic school student as he moves into a new and exciting time in his life. The future looks bright!
