[SOLD OUT] Summer 2026 Mentorship Program FAQs

The interVivos Summer 2026 Mentorship Program celebrates the leadership, experiences, and contributions of Asian mentors while creating meaningful opportunities for emerging leaders to grow. 

Why is interVivos focusing on mentors of Asian heritage for this program?

At interVivos, we believe mentorship should reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. This program highlights mentors of Asian heritage and recognizes the important role they play in shaping stronger communities and future leaders. By centering Asian voices, leadership and lived experiences, we aim to create a supportive space for meaningful conversations, shared learning and leadership growth.

Why is this program taking place during Asian Heritage Month?

May is Asian Heritage Month in Canada, a time to recognize and celebrate the history, contributions and leadership of people of Asian origin across the country. Offering the Summer 2026 Mentorship Program during Asian Heritage Month allows interVivos to move celebration into action. By highlighting mentors of Asian heritage, the program honours their contributions while creating meaningful opportunities for protégés to learn from their leadership, experiences and perspectives. Through this program, interVivos is proud to celebrate Asian leadership, strengthen community connections and support the next generation of leaders through mentorship.

What does Asian heritage mean?

Asian heritage refers to the diverse cultures, histories, traditions and identities of people with ancestry from East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Central Asia and Western Asia. It includes many languages, foods, values, art forms, faiths and lived experiences that continue to shape communities in Canada and around the world.  According to the 2021 Census of Population, about 7 million people reported an Asian ethnic or cultural origin, representing 19.3 per cent of Canada’s population (Source: https://www.statcan.gc.ca/en/daily/by-the-numbers/asian-history-month).

Is this the first time interVivos has offered a program focused on mentors of Asian heritage?

Yes. This is interVivos’ first mentorship program focused specifically on celebrating volunteer mentors of Asian heritage. However, interVivos has highlighted mentors of Asian heritage in many past programs, including programs focused on BIPOC mentors and programs that have celebrated diverse mentors from a wide range of backgrounds, sectors and lived experiences.

Who can register as a protégé? Do I need to identify as Asian?

No. The Summer 2026 Mentorship Program is open to protégés from all backgrounds.

While the program highlights volunteer mentors of Asian heritage, participation is not limited by identity. We welcome anyone interested in learning, building connections and participating in a mentorship experience rooted in inclusion, respect and shared growth.

LINK TO REGISTER

What is expected of mentors and protégés?

Successful mentorship begins with mutual commitment. Mentors and protégés are expected to participate with curiosity, respect and a genuine willingness to engage. Over the six-month program, participants are asked to connect at least three times in person and/or virtually. These conversations may focus on personal development, professional goals, leadership growth or navigating challenges and opportunities.

Mentors offer perspective, encouragement and guidance, while protégés are encouraged to take initiative by identifying goals they want to work toward.

What support does interVivos provide during the program?

Before the mentorship launch, participants receive orientation and resources to help set expectations and prepare for the program. Throughout the six months, the interVivos team remains available to provide guidance, answer questions and support participants as needed. We prioritize open communication and have taken intentional steps, including anti-oppression training for our board, to help create a welcoming and respectful experience for everyone involved.

Will the program help me find a job?

This program is not a job placement service.

While mentorship can naturally expand your professional network and create future opportunities, the primary purpose of the program is personal and professional development. Many protégés use the experience to strengthen leadership skills, explore ideas, build confidence or work through specific goals with the support of an experienced mentor.

Why is there a cost to participate?

interVivos is a volunteer-led nonprofit organization. The registration fee helps cover program and operational expenses so we can continue offering high-quality mentorship opportunities while keeping the program accessible. The cost to participate is $70 plus Eventbrite fees. Even with rising costs, we have intentionally limited the cost increase to just $5 since our last program. We have also offered, and will continue to offer, free spots to community organizations across past, current and future programs.

Can I participate again if I have been an interVivos protégé before?

Yes. Repeat protégés are welcome to participate again, provided they are willing to pay the program fee, attend the mandatory orientation, complete all program steps and come to the program with a genuine desire to continue learning and contributing.

Can I attend the launch just to network?

No. The launch is only open to registered mentors and protégés participating in the full six-month mentorship program. Mentors and protégés are expected to attend the mandatory orientation, participate fully in the launch, complete all program steps and enter the program with a genuine desire to learn, contribute and build a meaningful mentorship relationship.

How can I register?

Interest in interVivos mentorship programs is consistently strong, and available spots often fill quickly. Most applicants hear about the program through social media, our newsletter, community networks, board members or past participants. If you are interested in joining, we recommend registering as early as possible once registration opens.

LINK TO REGISTER

If you have more questions, please check out our mentorship FAQ page or reach out to us at connect@intervivos.ca. We look forward to welcoming you into the interVivos community and supporting your journey toward growth and leadership!

Thank you to our sponsors 

Presenting Sponsor: Park Power