Having enjoyed a career spanning more than 35 years in public works and infrastructure, Indra Maharjan’s wants to use his experience to help newcomers to Canada thrive in meaningful careers, by guiding them as a mentor.
Indra was honoured at the TRIEC Mentoring Partnership (TMP) Impact Awards 2026, co hosted with TD, for having guided more than 20 mentees. Mentoring aside, Indra also teaches newcomer architecture and engineering professionals at Humber College, equipping them with the skills needed for the Canadian workforce. He shares what inspired him to take up mentoring, and how he sees it as a way to give back.
What inspired you to become a mentor?
As someone who came to Canada as a newcomer, I am very keen to giving back to skilled newcomers, so that they too can also find thrive in their chosen sectors in Canada. When a newcomer in Canada succeeds, it is a matter of joy for all of us.
What is the one mentoring partnership that stands out to you, among all the others? What made it so meaningful?
I recall someone with no experience landing a great job in three months after finding a mentor through the TRIEC Mentoring Partnership. Once they delivered the good news back home, their entire family rang me up to thank me for what I had done.
As a mentor, I am always fascinated by how people in similar positions can support boosting confidence among newcomers through these partnerships, and how they go on to do amazing things.
Could you tell us about the impact your mentoring journey has had on you, both personally, and professionally?
After having built a successful career for myself, my mentoring journey continues to keep me grounded. Mentoring also reminds me of where I started, and that influences my leadership style, infusing it with empathy and humility.
What are some of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned from your mentees?
Through mentoring, I have learned that everyone is unique and they have one way to achieve the goal of finding a dream job.
What advice would you give to your fellow professionals who say that they are unsure about whether mentoring is for them, or do not have the time to mentor?
To them, I would say that mentoring is for all and valuable. This is regardless or irrespective of which stage of your career you are in right now.
What inspires you to keep mentoring?
My objective as a mentor is to continue providing meaningful impact to address industry workforce challenges, and help newcomers thrive in their new home.