WIL Mentorship Power 5 Interview

Dawna Atamanchuk, WIL Mentorship Program Mentor

1. What motivated you to become a mentor in the Women in Leadership Mentorship Program?

There is something special about watching another individual create space for themselves to see themselves differently, try something new, or even give themselves permission to stop doing something. Being able to provide someone with that space to reflect and grow is very meaningful to me. I love those moments when someone reaches out excited to share their good news, something they’ve tried, accomplished, or are looking forward to doing. People become mentors for different reasons and at different times in their lives, and I truly believe that if you have the time, space, and energy to give, it’s worth stepping into the experience to see where it takes you.

2. How do you approach building a strong mentor-mentee relationship? Are there any specific strategies or techniques you find effective?

A strategy I use is to come into the relationship without expectations. I let the mentee bring their own questions, ideas, and goals to our time together, and I focus on creating a space where they feel free to explore those things. Most people spend their days meeting others’ needs and demands, so if, as a mentor, I can offer 20 minutes, 30 minutes, or an hour just for them to pause, reflect, and focus inward on what they need, I feel like that’s time well spent.

3. What do you consider to be the most rewarding aspect of being a mentor?

For me, it’s witnessing those moments when a mentee experiences a shift, when something clicks and they start to see themselves in a new light. Watching someone recognize their own potential or feel proud of their progress is incredibly rewarding.

4. Have there been any valuable lessons or insights you’ve gained through your mentorship journey? If so, could you share one or two that have had a significant impact on you?

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that there is never just one way to mentor. Every

individual who comes to you is different, and every conversation brings new insights. I especially love mentoring people who see the world differently than I do. Those intersections where our perspectives meet are often the most powerful learning moments. It’s where I find myself thinking, “Wow, I learned something new today.”

5. What advice would you give to someone who is considering becoming a mentor in the Women in Leadership Mentorship Program?

If you’re at a point in your life where you have an interest, the motivation, and a few hours to lend to another person, I’d encourage you to get involved. You don’t need to have the answers; you just need to be present, open, and willing to create space for someone else’s growth. It’s a deeply meaningful experience that gives back in more ways than you can imagine.

Thank you so much for volunteering and making a positive difference, we greatly appreciate your dedication and valuable contributions.

Founded in 2001, the Women in Leadership Foundation (WIL) advances women in leadership and empowers the next generation building diverse workplaces that inspire lasting change across Canada.

WIL is empowering women and youth through Mentorship Programs (Women’s Leadership, Indigenous Group Mentorship, Youth Mentorship & Leadership Development Series), Regional Events and Chapters across Canada and national events and retreats, connecting leaders across North America.

The Transforming Workplace Opportunities Initiative is part of WIL’s broader mission to advance women’s leadership and break barriers for BIPOC communities. We invite employers to become a Transforming Workplace Opportunities Advocate and sign the Transforming the Workplace Pledge. By signing the pledge, your organization commits to fostering an inclusive workplace, where all employees are valued and respected and have equal opportunities for recruitment, growth, and success.  

Be part of the change and sign the pledge today.