MentorAbility
Experience Stories
Learn more about the power of mentorship through real experience stories between mentors and mentees
Mentorship Match
Experience Stories
Iain and Seth
Iain and Seth’s full success story HERE
When Iain, a job seeker passionate about mechanical work, met Seth—a heavy-duty mechanic with over 15 years of hands-on experience—their MentorAbility match quickly turned into a powerful learning moment. Seth shared candid insights from his career, offering humour, honesty, and practical wisdom about what the trade is really like. From the blend of mechanical, electrical, and welding skills to the mindset required to handle constant problem-solving, Seth painted a clear picture of the realities and rewards of the work.
Their conversation also dove into accessibility, confidence, and building the right habits early on. Seth offered Iain real-world strategies for working with a hearing impairment, answered thoughtful questions about tools and troubleshooting, and left him with powerful encouragement—including, “I’d hire you right now if I had an opening.” Their mentorship session was not just informative but deeply motivating, highlighting the value of openness, curiosity, and pride in the work.
Megan and Bean
Read Megan and Bean’s full success story HERE
Mentee Megan had been wanting to make a change in her career. She wants to be in a people-facing role, where she can see the difference that she’s making and have the opportunity to interact with others. One of the areas that she is interested in learning more about is physical therapy.
She was connected with Bean Gill, the Cofounder & Executive Director at ReYu Paralysis Recovery Centre! During their mentorship match, Bean spoke to Megan about the activity-based therapy work that happens at ReYu, the theory to the practical, and allowed Megan to observe multiple different therapy sessions.
Kinley and Keyanna Spa
When Kinley joined MentorAbility Alberta, her enthusiasm for trying new things led her to a mentorship at Kayenna Spa—a pet grooming salon known for its compassionate and inclusive approach. With the support of MentorAbility Coordinator Susannah and Kinley’s career coach Conner, the team at Kayenna welcomed her into their space with genuine excitement. Salon Manager Harley and General Manager Jesse shared how important inclusive hiring is to their team, making them eager to mentor Kinley as she explored the world of dog grooming.
Across two hands-on sessions, Kinley learned grooming basics, observed skilled techniques, and even stepped into the behind-the-scenes work that keeps a busy salon running. She loved learning from Jesse, felt supported throughout the process, and left with newfound confidence as she continues exploring career options. Her experience highlights how welcoming, inclusive workplaces create meaningful opportunities for job seekers to discover their strengths.
Read the full story to see how this mentorship helped Kinley grow, learn, and shine.
Siobhan and Rae
Siobhan, a passionate job seeker interested in getting into the film industry, was connected to actor and mentorship enthusiast to learn more about the industry, first steps of how to get involved and first-hand stories from Rae.
Read Siobhan and Rae’s full story HERE
Building a Future from the Bubble
Read Ari’s full story HERE
Ari’s story, shared in From the Bubble, highlights her journey as an entrepreneur, advocate, and creative innovator using her lived experience with disability to drive change. Through participation in Gateway’s MentorAbility program, Ari gained confidence, mentorship, and connections that helped her develop projects like Bubble Shuttle, an accessible transportation solution, and Canary Air, a consulting initiative focused on creating healthier, more inclusive environments. With support from mentors and collaborators, she transformed personal challenges into purpose-driven ventures, while also expressing her story through art and film. Ari’s journey reflects resilience, creativity, and a deep commitment to building a more accessible world—demonstrating how the right support can turn vision into meaningful impact.
Janelle and Patricia
Janelle, mentee, was looking to re-enter the working world with newfound skills and connections. She was eager to complete her apprenticeship hair stylist hours while focusing on her passion for colour. The nurturing environment of Weekly Trim True was a perfect match for what Janelle was looking for.
Read Janelle and Patricia’s story HERE
MentorAbility
Mentor and Partner Spotlights
Autism Edmonton
Autism Edmonton
Art Proctor
Art is an Afro-Indigenous Neurodiverse Artist, Activist an emerging leader in the field of technology and innovation, dedicated to empowering Indigenous and underrepresented communities through digital transformation and entrepreneurial support. As the Founder and CEO of Indigitech Destiny, Art has successfully steered the organization towards creating initiatives that bridge the gap between Indigenous talent and the tech industry.
With a profound commitment to fostering inclusivity and economic growth, Art has led Indigitech Destiny in developing a range of initiatives focused on education, training, and workforce development. Under his leadership, the organization has launched several successful projects, including IP workshops, technology conferences, and partnerships with key industry stakeholders.
Art’s strategic vision has been instrumental in securing significant community engagement and increasing organizational exposure. His efforts have culminated in the participation of Indigitech Destiny in high-profile events like the Reservation Economic Summit, Forward Summit, Collision and the High-Level Innovation Conference.
Beyond his professional achievements, Art is passionate about mentoring the next generation of leaders. His work in supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs to protect and leverage their intellectual property rights through partnerships with ElevateIP AB and Innovate Calgary exemplifies his dedication to creating sustainable economic opportunities.
Art Proctor holds a reputation for his dynamic approach to innovation and his unwavering commitment to the mission of Indigitech Destiny. He continues to inspire and lead by example, advocating for the integration of Indigenous perspectives in technology and innovation sectors.
City of Edmonton
City of Edmonton
CONTACT US
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Edmonton
201- 10941 120 Street NW
Edmonton, AB T5H 3R3
Tel: 780-454-0701
Calgary
1206 20 Ave SE
Calgary, AB T2G 1M8
Tel: 587-779-7888
General enquiries: info@gatewayassociation.ca
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