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The Power of Human Connection through Mentorship
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The CPHR Alberta Mentorship Program has grown over the years into a place where members find not only support and guidance in their professional growth but also lifelong friends and, at times, colleagues. The professional relationships built within this incredible community provide positivity and support in a time when many of us have needed it most.
The Mentorship Program is an opportunity for HR professionals of all levels to come together and learn from their community. From students to executive leaders, mentorship can mean many different things to many people. You could be a manager looking to take the next step in your career but are unsure how to get there, or a senior leader ready to retire and hand off their years of knowledge to someone eager to make change. Whatever your path may be, a protégé or a mentor, our mentorship program can support you.
We’ve heard many success stories over the years of matches within the program extending past their six- or twelve-month term. The exchanges of skills and best practices go beyond the normal day-to-day tasks; they evolve right alongside the profession itself. CPHR Alberta members have reached out to share their stories and experiences to show those who may wonder if mentorship is right for them just what our program has to offer.
Amy Sikina-Johns has been a chartered member of CPHR Alberta for 28 years. Amy has participated in the mentorship program 3 times as both a protégé and mentor. Her insights into the power of human connection through mentorship are both moving and inspirational. Thank you, Amy, for sharing your story!
As I reflect on my career in the HR field, I cannot help but recall when I first began and all of the wonderful people that coached me, believed in me and assisted me in establishing myself as a credible HR professional. These mentors helped set me up for success; they gave me self confidence and tough love when I needed it. Each and every one of these experiences were invaluable to me and the things I learned then, still resonate with me today.
As my career has evolved and changed as have I, both as a person and HR professional. Mentoring has remained part of my professional development. I have mentors I work with and mentors in my network that support me even today.
I wholeheartedly chose to be a mentor a few years ago and again in 2021, to hopefully pass the torch and support another’s growth both as person and as a professional. It was with my protégés that I choose to openly share my experiences to help each of them soar in their own way.
As these relationships form at their own pace in the comfort of my protégés, I see the evolution of new confidence, skills and personal growth. For me this is the biggest reward and ensures my intent of being a good mentor has the impact that it really needs. As years go by, I have maintained all of these relationships. My protégés and mentors have become part of my valued and trusted professional network.
Mentoring provides the opportunity for us to give and learn but we also learn and grow from the experiences our protégés share with us. Mentors can be coaches and teachers, but as a protégé, be open to the thought that your mentor can also bless you with the same opportunities. It is important to keep an open mind to this possibility.
I encourage each of you to make mentoring part of your career trajectory. We can all learn and grow through these relationships!
Here is to giving back and making a difference!
Thank-you,
Amy Sikina-Johns, CPHR
If you think the CPHR Alberta Mentorship Program is the right fit for you, consider applying for our July to December 2021 intake. Applications open May 3, 2021. If you would like to learn more about our Mentorship Program, you can visit www.cphrab.ca/mentorship-program or contact us today.
