Black History Month 2026: Meet Rebecca Budhoo

TD Securities is dedicated to fostering positive change, promoting an inclusive work environment and supporting the development of upcoming TD professionals. In recognition of Black History Month, Rebecca Budhoo shares how her Caribbean heritage and Black history shape her leadership and commitment to community, and how early inclusion and data-driven insights lead to better business decisions.

Legacy and beginnings: Who or what first rooted you in a sense of Black history and community, and how does that legacy show up in how you lead today?

My parents are from Trinidad and Tobago, and growing up in the U.S. has shaped in me a deep appreciation for Black history and the people who have paved the way before us. Being here has made me especially aware of the sacrifices Black Americans made in the fight for freedom, dignity and opportunity. These are freedoms that many of us across the African diaspora benefit from today. That legacy inspires how I lead as co-chair of the Black Employee Network's Culture Subcommittee: with respect for those struggles and a commitment to bringing people together, no matter where we come from.

Defining moment: Share a moment in your TD journey when you felt your voice or perspective changed the outcome for a team, client, or community.

Throughout my years with TD Cowen, I've been naturally more reserved and often work in a supportive capacity. However, my background in statistics and leadership in BEN has helped me recognize when my perspective can meaningfully influence outcomes. In one instance, I used data to surface patterns that weren't immediately obvious and shared those insights with the team in a thoughtful, collaborative way. Grounding the discussion in statistics and efficiency helped the team make a more informed decision and adjust its approach, leading to a stronger outcome. By listening closely and sharing thoughtful feedback at key moments, I've helped my teams pause, reflect, and make more informed decisions. Those moments have given me the confidence to help drive meaningful outcomes.

Business impact: Where do you see the clearest connection between inclusion and business outcomes in our lines of business—and what’s one change we should make this year to accelerate that impact?

I see the clearest connection between inclusion and business in how decisions are made. When people are included early, we benefit from broader perspectives that improve decision-making and lead to better outcomes for the firm and clients. One change we can make this year is to be more intentional about inviting diverse voices, so inclusion becomes part of how decisions are shaped.

Building pathways: What practical steps (policies, programs, or everyday behaviors) help create access and mobility for Black talent—and where are the gaps you’d like to see closed next?

The Black Employee Network provides mentorship programs and supports recruitment efforts, both of which I think are very important. I'm grateful for my experience with my amazing mentors, whose guidance, support and connection have played a meaningful role in my growth. Mentorship creates a space for learning, confidence, and community while recruitment helps ensure diverse talent is represented and supported within our pipeline. By continuing to invest in both, we can create meaningful long-term opportunities for Black talent to thrive.

Allies and action: What does reliable allyship look like to you between February and the rest of the year, and what’s one ally action you’ve seen make a meaningful difference?

To me, allyship means actively supporting and advocating for efforts to build a more inclusive environment - both socially and in the workplace. One ally action that can make a meaningful difference is leadership dedicating time to mentor and advocate for talent, helping to open doors and create opportunities that might not have existed otherwise. Taking the time to support these efforts has a powerful and lasting impact.

Forward focus: Looking ahead 12–24 months, what are you most committed to building—at work or in the community—and how can colleagues join you in that work?

I'm committed to strengthening our Black Employee Network by being more intentional in a few key areas. I want to actively support new joiners and make them aware of the value, resources, and community the network provides. I'm also focused on ensuring our programming continues to educate, united, and create meaningful dialogue across our communities. This includes collaborating with other ERGs to strengthen allyship and identify opportunities where we can better support one another. Colleagues can join me in this work by attending and supporting events, sharing feedback and topic ideas, volunteering their time, and partnering with us across ERG initiatives to help build a more inclusive and connected workplace.