Non Target diversity hire

I go to a school in Canada that isn't a huge target for IB, I wanna go to the US for summer 2026 and I have good connections. I am also a gay man, but not that gay presenting and I am white.

At least at my school, I'm basically the only gay guy in the finance community and I was wondering how much they care about that or if they care more for visible minorities. I have some personal connects at a few banks (2nd year associates, VPs) that seem to say they will help push my resume but I don't know them THAT well. Are my chances pretty slim? being from Canada and a definite non target for EBs and BBs but still it is the top business school in Canada? My average is 80% (80.3 on the dot) and I transferred in from a small college. I have extra curriculars (finance club) and accounting experience as well as some community stuff as well.

How much weight does it carry to have a VP put in a referral for me?

Curious to hear your thoughts. Once I get the interview if I perform well will needing to sponsor my visa AND coming from a non target make or break the decision that's made? Curious to hear other peoples experiences.