MentorAbility Canada Hub Highlight Series
Every month, MentorAbility Canada proudly presents one of our implementing partners. They are the MentorAbility coordinators—the backstage workers who quietly go about their tasks to ensure that job seekers, employers, and service providers can shine in the spotlight.
For the French version of this post, please click here.
Pour la version française de cet article, veuillez cliquer ici.
Unique Paths: Transformative Journeys through
MentorAbility in Prince Edward Island
In Prince Edward Island (PEI), Mya Farris and Ellie Beck are the MentorAbility Coordinators at ResourceAbilities. MentorAbility plays a crucial role in employment inclusion by connecting dedicated mentors and individuals seeking professional development and by supporting employers in creating inclusive workplaces.
Transformed Journeys and Dedicated Mentors
The impact of MentorAbility on the lives of participants in PEI is profound and tangible. Take the example of a participant who, due to mental health challenges, had been out of the workforce for several years. With the support of a mentor passionate about the environment, they gradually regained confidence in their abilities and landed a stable job in that field. Ellie Beck explains: “This story showcases how MentorAbility can bridge the gap between talent and opportunity.”
For Mya Farris, witnessing mentees thrive is the greatest reward: “One of the most moving moments was seeing a client find their place in a workplace I am familiar with. Their joy and fulfillment were palpable.” Mya also highlights how MentorAbilility is changing mindsets among employers and in the community, showing a positive shift towards inclusion, an encouraging sign.
“The growing enthusiasm of employers and the community towards inclusion is an encouraging sign for the future of MentorAbility.”
Mya Farris, MentorAbility Coordinator, MentorAbility PEI
Mentors are crucial to a MentorAbility experience, and their commitment and empathy also play an important role in the program’s success. Participants often find mentors who continue to offer advice and support long after the formal mentoring has ended.
A quality assurance tester at a video game company in PEI chose to stay in touch with their mentees for over three months. By taking the time to understand each person’s aspirations and strengths, the mentor was able to offer responsive guidance and support. One of their mentees went on to work for another local gaming company.
“Mentoring, even short-term, can be incredibly valuable. It allows people to clarify their aspirations, target areas for development, and build lasting connections. ”
Ellie Beck, MentorAbility Coordinator, MentorAbility PEI
The Many Benefits of Mentoring
Ellie Beck summarizes the importance of mentoring: “Mentoring can be incredibly valuable, even if it doesn’t immediately lead to a job. It’s an opportunity for the mentee to clarify one’s career aspirations, target areas for improvement, and build a strong professional network. Discovering that a certain field isn’t the right fit is also a step forward, as it helps refine one’s career path.”
MentorAbility PEI is expanding grassroots efforts to get the word out and to create more mentorship opportunities for mentees to showcase their skills. Thanks to the involvement and dedication of mentors and the motivation of mentees, MentorAbility demonstrates that professional inclusion is not only achievable but contributes social and economic added value to the entire community.
Become a Mentor Today!
By signing up to become a mentor, you’ll help a person experiencing disability to achieve their career goals and you’ll gain valuable insights and new connections. Complete the mentor sign up form or contact MentorAbility PEI to learn more about MentorAbility and how to get involved.
Mentors are supported
throughout the process.
Check the MentorAbility Canada web page for contact information for MentorAbility PEI Coordinators.
Or contact one of the three ResourceAbilities offices in PEI.