Business

Mentors at all ages… we all should have one

Published

10 years ago

September 29, 2014

By Colleen Lindberg
September 24th 2014 Edition

I run a youth entrepreneurship program and we are at the mentor phase, where they get to integrate a mentor into the program to help them out with different aspects of the business. Some people are choosing ones in the areas they need to focus in i.e.; financial, creative etc., others are choosing mentors that are already successful in their industries and some are choosing mentors completely unrelated to what they do but they really enjoy them and think that they can teach them something. Whatever the motivation is, the goal is to learn from someone who might have more information than you do on certain subjects.

I really believe that we all should have a mentor. No matter how old we are or how long we have been in business, there is always someone that has been doing it longer, has more experience, makes more money or has more time. It might even be that the mentor you would seek has a specific lifestyle where they only work 10 hours a week and you are still working 80 hours a week… Hmm I wonder what you would able to learn from him.

Some mentor stereotypes are that you have to dedicate a lot of time into the relationship. This may be true, but in most cases the mentor is just there as a support sail. It could mean a monthly dinner or lunch, or a quick chat weekly/bi-weekly or monthly. Whichever it is, the relationship is tailored to the needs of the individual and the time commitment can be totally customized as well.

Something to note, I would look high and extend yourself when in search of a mentor. I suggested to these youths that they pick someone in their industry that they want to mimic, that has already had a lot of success doing what they want to be doing. At first they were fearful of this, then I said to them, I will call on your behalf and ask them. This gave them more confidence. So I ask you a question, who would you call or better yet, who are you too scared to call to ask their advice? Then I think that is the person that should be your mentor as you might be able to learn something from them.

Three reasons why you need a mentor
1) They will hold you accountable without them even doing anything. Have you ever heard the saying we will do more for others than we will for ourselves? This is entirely true in this type of scenario. Imagine if you actually asked the person on your “fear” list to mentor you, they said yes and you are meeting for the first time. They give you ideas to get you moving forward a lot quicker and more efficiently and then you have “homework” to do before you meet up again. If this person is a key influencer in your industry you are going to get that work done as our humanness doesn’t want us to fail or look bad in front of others. This mentor, just being connected to you will make you accountable to your goals and most of all to yourself

2) Who do they know that you might be able to be connected to that you couldn’t necessarily get access to before? Now I am not saying that you should be driven by this and make the relationship all about this, but I really feel that when we connect with people, especially if the mentor said yes to helping you that they will really be open to helping you, so that means opening up doors for you as well and introducing you to the people that they know. This could mean some really great things for you.

3) Lastly, what if their success actually rubbed off on you. They say that we are the sum (usually money relations but also in mindset) of the five closest people in our lives. So if you are hanging out with struggling entrepreneurs, then most likely you are a struggling entrepreneur but if you threw a wealthy, successful entrepreneur into the mix that average changes and sometimes we don’t realize what relationships in our lives do to affect us positively and of course negatively. I can also guarantee, on top of so many other things that it will change your confidence. You will start to think of yourself differently and in new ways and most of all in empowering ways.

So if you feel you are still too old, too wealthy, or there’s not enough time to have a mentor, then I can guarantee you there might be other things missing in your whole balanced life. What if they hold the key for you… and maybe the shift will be small, however that small shift could make the biggest impact on your life. Consider it and if it’s still not for you, why don’t you consider becoming a mentor and helping someone else. There are so many different programs around your area that offer the availability for people to get mentors. Take some action, it’s time to mentor it up!

Up Next

Power of Contests!

Don't Miss

The Choice Less Traveled

TOCaribNews

Click to comment

Technology

How Toronto’s Caribbean Community is Leading in Digital Innovation

Published

2 weeks ago

April 16, 2024

TOCaribNews

Toronto’s Caribbean community is making significant strides in the realm of digital innovation, reflecting a vibrant and dynamic force within the city’s tech sector. This burgeoning influence spans across various sectors, including technology incubation, digital education, and entrepreneurship, underscoring a profound impact on Toronto’s digital economy.

Fostering a Culture of Innovation

The Caribbean community in Toronto is actively contributing to a culture of innovation that is pivotal for the city’s future advancements. Through collaboration with local and international businesses, startups, and academic institutions, this community is part of the driving force behind Toronto’s position as a hub for innovation. The city is home to over 70 incubators, accelerators, and co-working spaces, offering programs that support startups in technology, manufacturing, food production, fashion, arts, and music.

Central to this ecosystem is the MaRS Centre, one of the world’s largest urban innovation hubs, which houses entrepreneurs building Canada’s next generation of growth companies. Toronto’s impressive tech industry, supported by giants like Microsoft, IBM, Cisco, Google, and Facebook, benefits from the diverse talents and innovative spirit of the Caribbean community.

Digital Education and Entrepreneurial Spirit

The Toronto Caribbean community’s commitment to digital education and entrepreneurship is evident through initiatives such as the Toronto Reference Library. This hub invites users of all ages and skill levels to explore digital creation, offering activities and workshops on topics like 3D printing, graphic novel book clubs, and crafting circles. Such programs are crucial for fostering a culture of lifelong learning and innovation, enabling community members to acquire and refine digital skills.

Contribution to the Digital Economy

In the rapidly evolving digital economy, Toronto’s Caribbean community is not just a participant but a trendsetter. This is evident in the diverse range of digital services thriving in the city, including sectors such as life sciences and healthcare. The community’s innovative spirit contributes significantly to the city’s standing as a leading North American tech hub, with a vibrant biotechnology cluster and a comprehensive network of hospitals, research institutes, business incubators, and venture capital organizations. Also, initiatives like the Caribbean Digital Summit and The LEGUP Wealth Symposium featuring leaders from Caribbean governments and the tech industry, exemplifies the community’s active engagement and leadership in digital transformation and governance on a broader scale.

The real-time table games in Canada exemplify the wide array of online services prospering under this innovative umbrella. This digital sector benefits from the technological advancements and entrepreneurial drive within the Caribbean community, illustrating the diverse impact on Toronto’s digital landscape.

Toronto’s Caribbean community is playing a pivotal role in shaping the city’s digital innovation landscape. Through a commitment to education, entrepreneurship, and collaboration, this vibrant community is contributing to Toronto’s reputation as a global hub for technology and innovation. The synergy between the Caribbean community and the broader tech ecosystem in Toronto is proof of the power of diversity in driving progress and creativity in the digital age.

Technology

Jamaica’s Back-to-Back CONCACAF Gold Cup Final Appearances

Published

2 months ago

March 11, 2024

TOCaribNews

Jamaica, a small island in the Caribbean, may not be one of the first countries that come to mind when you think of soccer. However, in recent years, the Reggae Boyz have been making waves. And following the underdog stories unfolding at the current African Cup of Nations, the Jamaicans may well feel that success is just around the corner.

2024 – A Big Year For International Football

In the Ivory Coast this winter, AFCON has been making waves following the stunning early exits of almost every heavy hitter. The likes of Algeria, Tunisia, and Ghana all bowed at the group stage, while Egypt and Morocco followed them in the round of 16.

But it isn’t just Africa that has a continental competition taking place this year. Both the 2024 European Championships and Copa America will take place, tournaments that online sports betting sites have made England and Argentina the favorites to win, respectively. Caribbean involvement will have to wait until next year when the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup gets underway, and Jamaica will be hoping to channel their success from years gone by into action.

2015

The 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup was held in Canada and the United States, with Jamaica competing against some of the best teams from North and Central America. Despite being underdogs in many matches, the Reggae Boyz managed to make it all the way to the final. Inspired by the performances of former Premier League wingers Jobi McAnuff and Gareth McCleary, the Caribbean outfit defeated the highly-rated Costa Rica to top Group B.

That set up a meeting with Haiti in the quarterfinals, and a goal from former Derby County man Giles Barnes was enough to secure a narrow 1-0 victory. In the semifinals, they met a much fancied United States in front of 70,000 raucous fans at the Georgia Dome. But they weren’t intimidated, racing into a two-goal lead before clinging on for dear life in the second half and eventually running out 2-1 victors. Unfortunately, they were ultimately downed 3-1 by Mexico in the final, but not before they had captured the hearts of North America.

2017

Two years later, in 2017, Jamaica once again found themselves in the final of the tournament. This time around they faced the reigning champion Mexicans in the group stage, holding them to a goalless draw. Victories against Curacao and a draw with El Salvador were enough to seal their spot in the knockout round however, they headed into the latter stages as an unfancied side once more.

In the quarterfinals, the Jamaicans duly brushed aside Canada thanks to goals from Shaun Francis and Romario Williams. That set up a meeting with Mexico once again, and this time around, they would have their redemption. Fullback Kemar Lawrence scored the only goal of the game in the 88th minute, leaving El Tri stunned and sealing the Reggae Boyz’ spot in the final.

There, they faced off against the hosting United States at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California – home of the San Francisco 49ers. The Jamaicans were hoping to repeat their heroics of two years prior and come out on top, however, this time around it was the Stars and Stripes that ran out victorious. With the contest level at one goal apiece, Seattle Sounders striker Jordan Morris popped up with an 88th-minute winner to secure the victory.

Business

Victim Services of Durham Region invites Ontario schools and youth to Youth Violence Prevention Symposium

Published

2 months ago

February 24, 2024

TOCaribNews

BY PAUL JUNOR

Victim Services of Durham Region (VSDR) is committed to educating and informing young people with the knowledge and education they need to make informed decisions regarding critical issues that affect their lives.

In order to fulfill its mission, it will be hosting its annual online Youth Violence Prevention (YVP) Symposium. It will take place over a two-week period on Monday, February 26^th and Friday, March 8^th, 2024.It will be geared to Grades: 7, 8 and 9 students who will be able to access it using the online learning platform, Learn Worlds.

VSDR has been active over the years in the Durham Region where it has provided a range of services to help those affected and impacted by crime, or sudden tragedies. It is the only one of its kind that offers specialized services and support 24/7, 365 days per year to these individuals.

Their vision is to have a safe community where people are supported, empowered and thriving. The press release states that they provide trauma-informed, anti-oppressive crisis intervention services, including emotional support, safety planning, and financial assistance. In addition, there are translation services available in over 300 languages to those who need them. Case management services are also available, which assist individuals to bypass bureaucratic roadblocks with available:

subsidized housing, income support, medical and police services.

VSDR provides tailored support to survivors and witnesses of all crimes; 85% of its clients have experienced gender-based violence, including: survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault and human trafficking.

Some of the programs VSDR offers are:

Crisis Response
System Navigation
Victim Quick Response Program
Human Trafficking Prevention/Intervention
Youth Prevention Workshops
Professional Training
Hotel Staff Training

The symposium will consist of accessible online modules that will be broken down into educational content, specific videos and in-class activities that are grade specific and align with curriculum targets. The six modules per grade are:

Consent & Healthy Relationships
Human Trafficking
Online Safety, Cyber Bullying and Image Sharing
Teen Dating Violence
Gang Violence & Peer Violence
Empowerment & Self-Care

The following are aims of the symposium:

Protect and empower young people.
Engage with issues like human trafficking, consent, healthy relationship, sextortion, teen dating violence, gang awareness, and cyber safety.
Provide insights on vulnerabilities and risk factors through activities and presentations.

Through partnerships with schools and educators it has been possible to:

Provide interactive online modules, games and videos.
Focus on learning in a safe setting.
Information on where to seek support provided on the event day and beyond.

Since 2020, the annual Violence Prevention Symposium has made a significant impact in the lives of young people as its program evolves from just focusing on Anti-Human Trafficking to issues that reflect emerging youth trends.

Some of the Impactful Results are:

Youth knowledge increased from 35% to 97%
Over 300% decrease in the number of youths educated since 2020
48 disclosures received in 2023 as a result of symposium education.

VSDR is anticipating great things from the 2024 symposium. They will continue to adapt and adjust the programs and services they deliver in light of the changing landscape and rapidly evolving world of teenagers.