Article written in collaboration with Inclusion BC

Saanich, BC – What began as a conversation about inclusive employment turned into a transformative opportunity for District of Saanich staff — becoming mentors for job seekers with disabilities through MentorAbility, a national program connecting mentors and mentees in meaningful, career-focused experiences.

This past winter, the District was working with Inclusion BC to put the program into action. By April, 14 staff members had signed up to mentor — and four mentorships are now complete.

A perfect fit for inclusion goals

The idea emerged during a discussion about the District’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace. MentorAbility provided a tangible, proactive way to remove the barriers that people with disabilities face when seeking meaningful work.

Inclusion BC notes that creating an organization-wide culture of openness and inclusion is essential for successful hiring of people with disabilities — and MentorAbility can be a powerful tool in building that culture.

“Participation in MentorAbility directly supports the District’s ADEI commitments as outlined in our Accessibility Plan and DEI Strategic Report. By connecting staff mentors with individuals who may otherwise face exclusion from employment opportunities, the program creates meaningful pathways to access and representation," said Mais Hajaij, HR Consultant for Accessibility, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. 

Impact on mentors and mentees

Staff who volunteered as mentors quickly discovered the personal and professional rewards of the program.

“I expected to give advice on careers and résumés, but the real impact came from simply being present — creating space for honest conversation and helping someone believe in their own potential," says Anish Gupta, Systems Analyst II, Information Technology. 

From the mentee perspective, Aidan D. said, “This mentorship gave me more confidence to explore unique settings and situations on my job search journey. It gave me a chance to learn about someone else’s job, practice communicating in a work environment, and feel inspired.”

Mentorships are facilitated by employment professionals from the community, ensuring that both mentees and mentors are supported through the process.

Laura E., who facilitated Aidan’s mentorship shared, “It was heartwarming to see Anish shift his delivery as the conversation continued — starting by assuming competency, then providing more detail as needed. This wasn’t just an informational interview — it was a one-on-one inspirational conversation.”

Leading by example

As the first municipality in B.C. to partner with MentorAbility in this way, the District is showing what inclusion in action looks like.

Devin Bonar, Recreation Asset Management Coordinator, also found the experience rewarding.

“JP impressed me with his knowledge even before our walkthrough began. He asked thoughtful, detailed questions that challenged me to think. The biggest reward for me is the opportunity to support my mentee in any way I can as he builds his career.”

Sheldon Kitzul, MentorAbility BC Hub Coordinator, said the success came from the District’s openness.

“They were eager to expand their ADEI strategy and willing to try something new. That attitude was clear from how quickly employees responded and signed up.”

Get involved and learn more

Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM) is recognized every September in B.C. and every October in the rest of Canada.

To learn more about MentorAbility and how you can participate: visit: inclusionbc.org or email:
 employment@inclusionbc.org. 

You can also explore DEAM events across the country:
 supportedemployment.ca/initiatives/disability-employment-awareness-month

You can read Inclusion BC Newsletters here:
https://inclusionbc.org/resource/past-email-newsletters-2025