Navigating the Yellow Brick Road: How Determination Shaped Career Success

In this episode of Beyond Barriers, Hanan Dakhil, Director of DEI at Canyon Partners, reflects on her non-linear career journey. With over 20 years at the firm, Hanan shares how determination, mentorship, and self-advocacy helped her pivot from a research assistant to a leadership role that was not initially part of the firm's structure when she began. 

Along the way, she overcame self-doubt, navigated work-life integration as a mother, and embraced just-in-time learning to develop new skills. Hanan also reveals how her background in political science and international relations sparked her passion for philanthropy, mentorship, and community empowerment, leading her to champion initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion at Canyon Partners.

Hanan’s journey is a powerful reminder that embracing uncertainty and leaning into your strengths can create impact not only for yourself but for others. If you're ready to reinvent your career or make a difference, Hanan’s insights will inspire you to stay committed and forge your own path.

Key Takeaways:

• Self-Advocacy: Discover how Hanan took charge of her career by advocating for more opportunities and leveraging her unique strengths.
• The Power of Mentorship: Learn how Hanan’s relationship with a senior leader became the springboard to her current role.
• Navigating Career Transitions: Hear how Hanan overcomes feelings of stagnation and uncertainty to find a renewed sense of purpose in her career.
• Creating Cultural Impact: Understand how Hanan fosters inclusion, diversity, and community engagement both within her firm and in the finance industry.