Dr. Deepak Sharma is a people and culture leader with over three decades’ experience spanning the public sector, academia, healthcare, and military sectors.
An expert lies in human resources, organizational development, and promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion, Dr Sharma has advised senior leadership and developed inclusive employment strategies that enhance employee engagement and organizational performance.
Mentoring aside, he also teaches HR and leadership courses to newcomers and students, helping them integrate and grow in their careers.
At the TRIEC Mentoring Partnership (TMP) Impact Awards 2026, co hosted by TD, Dr. Sharma was honoured for successfully mentoring 10 mentees through the TMP Program. He shares his insights on why he chose to take up mentoring.
What inspired you to become a mentor?
My motivation to become a mentor comes from my background in the military, healthcare, people and culture, and academia, where guiding soldiers, students and emerging professionals was an inherent part of my responsibilities. Over time, mentoring evolved from a mere duty to a meaningful personal purpose.
What is the one mentoring partnership that stands out to you, among all the others? What made it so meaningful?
A memorable mentoring experience involved guiding newcomer with overseas experience: a professor with a Ph.D., through a career change. Observing him regain confidence, adapt to the Canadian workplace, and secure a desirable position was deeply rewarding, and underscored the value of inclusive support.
Could you tell us about the impact your mentoring journey has had on you, both personally and professionally?
Mentoring has enhanced my leadership by increasing my empathy, cultural awareness, and talent development skills. Conversely, my mentees have imparted lessons on resilience, adaptability, and valuing diverse perspectives.
What advice would you give to fellow professionals who say they are unsure about mentoring or feel they don’t have the time?
To those professionals who are hesitant about mentoring, I would say that no additional time is required. mentoring can fit seamlessly into your existing leadership duties. Even brief, purposeful conversations can leave a meaningful impression.
What inspires you to keep mentoring?
What motivates me is the ripple effect: watching those I’ve mentored develop, succeed, and eventually help others. This cycle of growth resonates strongly with my dedication to inclusion, leadership growth, and creating stronger workplaces.