Clear Skies Investment Management/ Gestion de Placements Clear Skies
Clear Skies Investment Management was started with the goal of accelerating the adoption of impact investing within the financial community and to further the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through investment management. As the investment world has been slowly shifting from one with decisions made based on risk and return towards one where impact is an essential dimension to be considered, Clear Skies aims to play a role in helping investors participate in that new impact economy*. Because impact is at the core of our firm’s philosophy, we aim to drive change instead of simply responding to change.
*Impact funds and impact investment portfolios will be offered as products and services once Clear Skies Investment Management Inc. is registered with all regulators in all applicable jurisdictions.
Voting member: Michel Brutti
Member since 2021
Building Impact Leaders
Polina Gama
Director of Operations and Strategy at Clear Skies Investment Management
December 2024
How have you engaged with CAFIID and how has it supported your professional journey and growth?
As I was completing my MBA, many of my peers encouraged me to organize student body initiatives within the university, but one of my objectives for my master’s degree, unlike my bachelor’s degree where I spent a lot of extracurricular hours already doing the above, was to dedicate more time beyond the classroom. I aimed to connect more with alumni and add external opportunities to my roster of student activities. That’s when an alumnus and mentor, who knew my interests and skills well, introduced me to CAFIID. At the time, CAFIID was assembling a team to develop a methodology for verifying impact investment management of member companies. This project assessed firms' alignment with the globally recognized Operating Principles for Impact Management (OPIM).
Working on this committee was a deeply enriching experience. I had the privilege of collaborating with passionate, like-minded individuals who shared invaluable insights and expertise. The knowledge I gained through this work not only broadened my understanding of impact investing but also directly enhanced my professional skill set, enabling me to apply these learnings in my current role.
Can you share a meaningful connection or key lesson learned through CAFIID?
One of the most meaningful connections I made while volunteering at CAFIID was with the future founder of Clear Skies, though the firm had not yet been established. Our discussions within the committee were dynamic and inspiring, often centered around the ambitious goals of impact investing. It was during these conversations that the vision for Clear Skies began to take shape, and I decided to join his mission to launch the firm.
Starting an investment company is no small feat, but when it’s driven by a powerful purpose—allocating capital to cutting-edge companies that positively impact the planet, people, and communities—it becomes an undeniable opportunity. This connection and the collaborative environment at CAFIID played a crucial role in sparking my journey.
What motivates you to stay involved with CAFIID?
The vibrant culture of sharing and celebrating keeps me connected to CAFIID. The community of practice consistently contributes its learnings and best practices in impact investing. Moments of success, whether for individuals or organizations, are met with genuine support and recognition. It’s a space where collaboration and innovation thrive, creating an ecosystem that continually inspires me to do more.
What advice would you give others to support their professional growth in impact investing?
The world of impact investing is constantly evolving. New methodologies, engagement initiatives, and ideas emerge every day. To grow professionally in this field, stay connected, remain open to collaboration, and actively engage with communities like CAFIID. It is your network that will provide invaluable opportunities for you to learn, share, and make a meaningful difference.