Mentorship isn’t just about answering questions—it’s about opening doors, offering real-world insight, and building confidence one conversation at a time. This was certainly the case for Jaison, a mentor, and Jane, a mentee. As a Director of Taxation with a diverse background, Jaison brings mentorship into every aspect of his leadership style. For Jane, a recent immigrant navigating a new professional landscape, joining the mentorship program was about more than seeking advice. It was about finding clarity, connection, and direction. Together, they built a meaningful relationship that helped shape a stronger, more confident career path for Jane.
Why mentorship matters
Mentoring is second nature for Jaison. He has over a decade of experience across public practice and worked in industry and government. He has seen firsthand the impact of support and guidance. “I have benefited from mentorship and know how valuable it can be to junior professionals. It is rewarding to help someone progress to the next level,” he shares.
Jane joined the mentorship program in search of clarity. As an immigrant CPA, she felt uncertain about her future. “I was unfulfilled in my job,” she recalls. “The tasks didn’t challenge me, and I felt like I wasn’t living up to my full potential.” Despite her strong qualifications and experience, Jane felt disconnected from her career path. “I was recommended to the program by another CPA,” she says, “and I jumped at the opportunity.” She sought guidance, encouragement, and someone who had navigated a similar journey to help her figure out the next step.
From first meeting to forward momentum
From the start, both Jane and Jaison committed to making their mentorship relationship work. They set clear expectations, agreed to meet monthly, and focused each session on Jane’s questions, goals, and current challenges.
“We made it clear the mentee drives the process,” Jaison explains. “We set goals and action items and always followed up on progress. It helped keep things on track and gave our meetings purpose.”
Jane adds, “Before each meeting, I prepared questions based on what I was working on and set expectations for what I was looking for. I also made sure to send reminders and keep the lines of communication open.” The conversations quickly uncovered a key insight: Jane’s current firm wasn’t the right fit, professionally or personally. Together, they explored options, talked through interviews, and considered roles that would better align with her goals.
Jane took a shot at applying to a large firm. Although she didn’t get the job, the interview experience built her confidence. Their regular check-ins soon turned into a catalyst for change. Jaison heard about an opening at a respected firm in his network. He mentioned it to Jane and made an introduction. Jane pursued the opportunity, landed the role, and now feels more aligned in her career. “I feel challenged and fulfilled,” she says. “I finally feel like I’m growing again.”
Jaison shared, “I’m excited to see where she goes next.”
Why this mentorship relationship worked
Both mentor and mentee agree that the relationship thrived thanks to a strong foundation. “Commitment, communication, and expectations made our mentorship work,” Jaison emphasizes. “There’s nothing worse than wasting time with no direction.”
Jane appreciated the clarity and support she received throughout the process. “Jaison always provided clear explanations and helped me explore possible solutions when I had concerns,” she says. “He didn’t just give answers—he helped me build clarity.”
What would you say to others contemplating mentorship?
Jane and Jaison agree that mentorship is worth it.
“This is a great program, especially when the match is strong; Jane’s background was a good match for me,” Jaison says. “I recommend it to other recently designated CPAs who want to grow.”
Jane echoes the sentiment. “I’ve gained so much from being part of the program. I gained the clarity and confidence I needed to take the next steps in my career. I encourage other CPAs unsure of their next steps to join the program.”
Next steps
Mentorship is more than a professional courtesy. It is a partnership that can unlock opportunity, foster growth, and remind someone they are not alone in their journey. With mutual commitment and a willingness to share, a single mentorship experience can do more than shape a career; it can restore confidence in what is possible.
Whether you’re navigating your next career move or considering a transition, mentorship can provide the clarity and direction you need. And if you’re ready to give back, it’s one of the most rewarding ways to support someone else’s journey. The CPA Alberta Mentorship Program is here to help you take that next step—whichever side you’re on.
