Disabilities Mentoring Day (DMD) will always hold a special place in my heart. I remember participating as a mentee not once, but twice, and how much those experiences shaped who I am today. The value I gained from my two mentors was indescribable. They believed in me, shared foundational tips, and helped me understand the importance of building my network from the ground up—a task that felt daunting but necessary.

Going into both days as a mentee, I knew I had to push myself out of my comfort zone. Growing a professional network from scratch wasn’t easy but having mentors who genuinely cared about my growth made all the difference. They gave me practical advice, lifted my confidence, and instilled a sense of hope and possibility that I still carry with me today.

When I had the opportunity to participate in DMD as a mentor this year, I knew I had to say yes. People in my life have inspired me to become who I am, and I wanted to give that same gift to someone else. It was a chance to share a bit of my day-to-day work and hopefully inspire my mentee to pursue their passions and dreams. Knowing that my guidance could have a lasting impact on someone’s journey felt incredibly meaningful.

A Memorable Mentorship Experience on Disabilities Mentoring Day

One of the most memorable moments from my day as a mentor was having an open discussion with our CEO, Jamie. We talked about the importance of empowering people to become who they want to be, and it was incredible to witness the impact of that conversation on my mentee. Jamie’s insights sparked inspiration, and it felt like such a privilege to share that moment.

Another key part of my experience was making sure my mentee felt comfortable. I shared some of my own experiences, which opened up the conversation and encouraged them to ask questions freely. The power of mentorship is truly remarkable; in just a few hours, it can change someone’s belief in their potential and give them a new perspective on what they can achieve.

Why Mentorship Matters

What struck me most during DMD was seeing how much my mentee wanted to learn. Their curiosity and excitement reminded me of the mentors who had once guided me. The experience reinforced a powerful truth: mentorship isn’t a one-way street. As mentors, we learn and grow just as much as our mentees do. It’s a shared journey that builds hope, understanding, and a sense of belonging.

I’ve had many mentors throughout my life, and each one has left an indelible mark. The opportunity to be on the other side and offer guidance made me appreciate even more the lasting impact of mentorship. It’s an experience that I believe everyone should have, whether as a mentor or a mentee—or both.

Aligning with INNoVA’s Mission and Disabilities Mentoring Day

What I love about INNoVA is that our mission perfectly aligns with the values of mentorship and inclusion. We’re all about creating accessible, inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive and feel they belong. Disabilities Mentoring Day is a beautiful extension of that mission. Being able to share my story and guide someone else felt like living out INNoVA’s values in the most authentic way.

The power of mentorship, whether you’re on the giving or receiving end, is something that everyone should experience. It’s about sharing your journey, offering hope, and learning together. For me, this year’s DMD was a full-circle moment—an opportunity to inspire and be inspired.

Thank you to everyone who made Disabilities Mentoring Day so special. Let’s continue to lift each other up and create spaces where everyone has the chance to succeed.

Inspired by the power of mentorship and the values of Disabilities Mentoring Day? At INNoVA, we’re committed to creating spaces where everyone belongs and thrives. Let’s work together to make your organization’s accessibility goals a reality. Explore our services or schedule a consultation today!

Rebekah Garriock

Virtual Administrative Coordinator