Bank of Nova Scotia has received the ‘My Hero’ award from Aid for AIDS International, an organization committed to improving the lives of those living with HIV/AIDS in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The award recognizes Scotiabank’s efforts in fighting HIV/AIDS across its global network.

Concurrently, Scotiabank announced a comprehensive employee policy on HIV/AIDS in the workplace. Employee health and safety, as well as zero-tolerance for stigma and discrimination are included in the global policy.

“The creation of this employee policy is the direct result of Scotiabank’s longstanding commitment to enacting best practices around HIV/AIDS in the communities in which we live and work,” says Sylvia Chrominska, group head, global human resources and communications. “I am also thrilled to accept the award from AID FOR AIDS International on behalf of the thousands of Scotiabank employees across the globe who volunteer their time, raise funds, make donations, and organize campaigns to help raise awareness and defeat HIV/AIDS.”

Each year, Aid for AIDS International recognizes one corporation for its contributions to the global fight against HIV/AIDS.

“Scotiabank has proven itself to be a leader in corporate responsibility, showing unprecedented commitment to the fight against HIV/AIDS in both its native Canada and internationally,” said Jesus Aguais, founder and executive director, Aid for AIDS International. “Scotiabank has shown an admirable commitment to fighting the pandemic worthy of both recognition and emulation. We are proud to honour them with the 2009 My Hero award.”

Since 1998, Scotiabank has made the fight against HIV/AIDS an all-bank priority. Internationally, Scotiabank supports programs across North, South and Central America that raise awareness among citizens and raise funds for HIV/AIDS agencies across the regions.

IE