CUYLM Mentorship Program in Its Second Year

Following a successful 2021 inauguration, the CUYLM Mentorship Program officially kicked off its second year on April 21, 2022. Young and emerging leaders, as well as employees within the Manitoba credit union system (mentees) began their mentorship relationship with subject matter experts and established leaders (mentors) from other Manitoba credit unions, with focus on increasing knowledge, sharing experiences, developing leadership skills, and building connections.

At the kickoff event, mentees were encouraged to drive the mentorship relationship by determining their desired areas of growth and development, as well as working efficiently with their mentors to accomplish their goals. Mentees and mentors were provided with resources such as the mentorship guidebook and goals worksheet. They were also encouraged to build rapport, communicate effectively, set ideal targets, and create a comfortable meeting environment to ensure approachability, openness, and confidentiality.

On September 21, 2022, CUYLM held a virtual networking session with the mentors and mentees. The respective groups, in separate breakout rooms, shared their experiences and lessons learned from the mentorship journey, and expanded their networks. CUYLM also used the opportunity to obtain feedback and ensure that the mentorship program ended its second year successfully.

Conversations with mentees revealed that the mentorship program assisted them with their professional and personal growth. They affirmed that their mentorship relationship involved collaboration, information sharing, organic discussions, and judgement-free conversations. These aided them through role transitions, conflict resolutions, time management, and career trajectory. The mentees acknowledged that their mentorship relationships were more valuable than anticipated.

The mentors asserted that the mentorship program was an excellent way to give back to the system, and some of them expressed their interest in mentoring throughout their entire career. While CUYLM alumni mentors appreciated the opportunity to stay connected to CUYLM and its initiatives, non-alumni mentors, especially those who had been with the program since its the inaugural year, agreed that the program was a nice way to make connections and meet new people. They affirmed that each mentee’s style and preference was different, and they as mentors continuously learned to adjust accordingly. They also stated that they enjoyed behavioural-based conversations which focused on personal and professional development.

Special thanks to CUYLM executive committee for organizing a successful networking event. Gratitude also goes to the facilitators and participants of the event.

To learn more about CUYLM Mentorship Program, you may reach out to CUYLM Committee.