Mentorship
Our Purpose:
The Mentorship Program is built around the core principles of learning, growth, and community engagement.
The Mentorship Program is built around the core principles of learning, growth, and community engagement.
Our goal is to create a supportive environment where:
- Mentees can develop their business analysis skills, receive career advice, and set personal and professional goals.
- Mentors can provide insights, share their experiences, and contribute to the professional development of emerging business analysts.
- Both parties can benefit from mutual learning and foster stronger connections within the business analysis community.
- The program also supports the overall mission of IIBA Calgary by contributing to the development of skilled business analysts who can confidently contribute to their organizations.
If you are a mentee and searching for a mentor submit your information through the Mentee Form
If you're a seasoned Business Analyst looking to offer your wisdom and coaching to a mentee, submit your information through the Mentor form
The IIBA Calgary Chapter Mentorship Program connects experienced Business Analysts with those seeking guidance in their careers across industries.
This program is designed to foster meaningful one-on-one relationships where mentees can receive personalized advice, enhance their skills, and navigate their career paths with greater clarity and confidence. For mentors, it’s an opportunity to give back to the community by sharing their knowledge and helping the next generation of business analysts succeed.
The program offers structured support, including regular check-ins, goal setting, and progress tracking, to ensure both mentors and mentees derive maximum value from their interactions.
Mentorship Program Coordinator Profile:
Achala Vinnakota is the driving force behind the Mentorship Program. With over a decade of experience in business analysis, she has mentored countless individuals, guiding them through certification preparations, career transitions, and skill development.
Her experience includes:
- Certifications: SPOC, SAMC, ITIL V4, Microsoft Certified Educator,
- Industry Expertise: Publishing, HR, Banking, Research Compliance, eProcurement services, Agriculture, and Education
- Passion for Mentorship: Achala believes in empowering others by sharing her journey and helping mentees succeed in their professional lives. She is involved as a Mentor with the Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Council (CRIEC), assisting newcomers to integrate into the workforce and succeed in their careers.
To get involved, please reach out to Achala at mentor@calgary.iiba.org and take the next step in fostering growth and knowledge-sharing within our community.
Who Should Join:
Our Mentorship Program is perfect for:
Our Mentorship Program is perfect for:
- Aspiring Business Analysts: Individuals new to the field seeking guidance on entering the profession, exploring career opportunities, and developing foundational skills.
- Mid-Career Professionals: Business analysts aiming to advance in their roles, explore new areas, or transition to higher-level positions.
- Certification Candidates: Mentees preparing for IIBA certifications who can benefit from mentors’ insights and exam preparation strategies.
- Experienced Business Analysts: Professionals looking to share their knowledge, give back to the BA community, and help shape the careers of emerging talent.
Earn Continuing Development Units (CDUs): Participating in the Mentorship Program can earn Continuing Development Units (CDUs), which are required to maintain IIBA certifications. Both mentors and mentees can earn CDUs by being active in
the program:
the program:
- Mentors: Earn up to 5 CDUs per year.
- Mentees: Earn up to 5 CDUs for active engagement in the program.
This not only helps in professional growth but also ensures you maintain your certification standing with IIBA.
Interested in becoming a mentor or mentee? Join our Mentorship Program today!
Interested in becoming a mentor or mentee? Join our Mentorship Program today!
- Mentees: Gain valuable career insights, enhance your business analysis skills, and receive personalized guidance from industry experts.
- Mentors: Contribute to the growth of the next generation of business analysts while earning CDUs and developing your own leadership and coaching abilities.
Whether you’re looking to be mentored or wish to mentor someone, we’re excited to connect you with the right opportunity send us an email at mentor@calgary.iiba.org and education@calgary.iiba.org Mentorship Program Calendar for 2024
Mentorship Program Calendar for 2025
Mentorship Program Calendar for 2025
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Mentorship Cohort
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Start Date
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End Date
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Application Deadline
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Winter Cohort 2025
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Jan 13, 2025
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12 Weeks
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Open All Times
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Spring Cohort 2025
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May 5, 2025
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12 Weeks
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Open All Times
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Fall Cohort 2025
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Sep 5, 2025
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12 Weeks
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Open All Times
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- Each cohort runs for 3 months.
- Regular bi-weekly check-ins between mentors and mentees (virtual or in-person based on preference).
- A kick-off meeting and a wrap-up session for each cohort to discuss expectations, track progress, and celebrate achievements.
Mentor and Mentee Expectations:
To ensure the success of the Mentorship Program, both mentors and mentees are expected to commit to the following:
To ensure the success of the Mentorship Program, both mentors and mentees are expected to commit to the following:
Mentees:
- Establish clear objectives at the beginning of the program and collaborate with your mentor to reach them.
- Take the initiative to schedule meetings and be proactive in your engagement.
- Embrace feedback and be open to stepping out of your comfort zone.
Mentors:
- Offer constructive advice and share your expertise and experiences.
- Maintain regular communication and ensure you’re available for your mentee.
- Support your mentee’s professional development and assist them in achieving their goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How are mentors and mentees matched?
A: We match mentors and mentees based on career goals, areas of expertise, and personal preferences to ensure a successful and productive relationship.
Q: How are mentors and mentees matched?
A: We match mentors and mentees based on career goals, areas of expertise, and personal preferences to ensure a successful and productive relationship.
Q: Can I participate as both a mentor and a mentee?
A: Yes! Depending on where you are in your career, you may find value in being both a mentor to someone and a mentee to someone else.
A: Yes! Depending on where you are in your career, you may find value in being both a mentor to someone and a mentee to someone else.
Q: How long does the mentorship program last?
A: The program typically runs for 3 months, but the exact length may vary based on individual pairings and goals.
Q: What should I expect from my mentorship experience?
A: Expect regular meetings, open communication, and constructive feedback. The experience is designed to support your personal and professional growth.
Q: Are there any requirements to join the program?
A: Participants should have a genuine interest in mentorship, whether as a mentor or a mentee. Specific requirements may vary based on the role you choose.
Q: How often should mentors and mentees meet?
A: We recommend meeting at least once a month, but the frequency can be adjusted based on mutual availability and needs.
Q: What if I feel my mentor or mentee is not a good fit?
A: If you feel there’s a mismatch, please reach out to the program coordinator to discuss your concerns and explore possible changes.
Q: Is there a cost to participate in the Mentorship Program?
A: No, the Mentorship Program is a free benefit for IIBA Calgary Chapter members.
A: No, the Mentorship Program is a free benefit for IIBA Calgary Chapter members.
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