With over twenty years of experience in multiple roles across various industries, Deepa Mittimani CPA began her career as a Chartered Accountant in India and after immigrating to Canada achieved her CPA designation. Now a CFO for a digital media agency, Deepa’s relationship with mentee Jophalyn Davadilla CPA, a Controller in the forestry industry, is one built on trust, mutual respect, and, as Deepa says, “creating a safe space where questions can be asked, opinions shared, and honest and constructive feedback received.”
Like her mentor, Jophalyn received her CPA designation after immigrating from the Philippines, where she worked as a CPA. She can attest to how important and influential a positive mentor-mentee relationship can be: “Especially after I immigrated, I had a lot of self-doubt,” Jophalyn says. “Having a mentor has enabled me to process those emotions better.”
Under Deepa’s guidance and wisdom, Jophalyn has grown both professionally and personally. The good news is, Deepa has reaped similar benefits, as well. “Mentoring is not a one-way street,” Deepa says of this highly rewarding experience. “As a mentor, you must be aware there is no one size solution for any problem. Along with gaining new perspectives and learning the delicate balance between advising versus insisting things are done a certain way, I learned how to overcome challenges with compassion, empathy, and kindness. I also feel more connected to the larger CPA community.”
As the pair live in different cities, Jophalyn and Deepa relied on e-mails and video calls to build and strengthen their relationship. “I felt awkward at first,” Jophalyn admits, “but as we went through monthly sessions, I felt more comfortable in sharing my thoughts.”
“Initially, we had to work on getting over the awkwardness and creating a safe place to be vulnerable,” Deepa adds. “Now we can say we are friends for life. Even though the program has ended, the relationship will continue, which I think is the greatest success of this program.”
If you’re interested in meeting new people, learning new skills, and potentially gaining a new friend and ally, check out the CPA Alberta Career Development Mentorship Program and register yourself as a mentor or mentee.
