Budhi Kharel is a Foundations Engineer at Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) Foundations Office and also teaches part-time. Until March 2010, he served as an Associate Professor in the Civil Engineering Department at St. Petersburg State University for Water Communications for over a decade. During that time, he also worked part-time as a consulting engineer. In 2011, he transitioned to the civil/geotechnical industry in Canada, essentially restarting his professional journey.
Budhi has mentored more than 15 newcomers through the TRIEC Mentoring Partnership (TMP) program and is passionate about supporting others by sharing his own journey and motivations for mentoring.
What motivates you to keep coming back as a mentor?
I recognized the potential and honesty of immigrant professionals and decided to support them so they wouldn’t encounter the hurdles I faced when entering the professional fields in Ontario. By helping them to secure employment, they contribute to the Canadian economy and provide for their families with a great satisfaction of utilizing their professional experience.
What would be your top tip for a new volunteer mentor?
Be honest and open. Don’t shy away from having informal, social conversations with your mentees. It helps build trust and connection.
What has been your top aha mentoring moment?
Several of my mentees have secured jobs within just a few months. Often in roles that exceeded their expectations. One especially memorable moment came when a newcomer reached out to me after finding my name online. He had been in Canada for over two years without any guidance on entering the civil engineering field. I reviewed his resume, gave him feedback, and shared the names of potential employers. Later, he told me I felt like a big brother to him in a new country. Soon after, he landed several interviews.
Has becoming a mentor also helped you succeed in your own career? If so, how?
Yes, it has helped me build confidence and broaden my understanding of people from different cultures and backgrounds.
In one sentence, describe the importance of mentoring for newcomers starting their career in Canada.
To guide them on honing their soft skills and highlighting the professional requirements necessary to achieve their set goals, I review their resumes and profiles to ensure they comply with Ontario/Canadian standards. ‘Offering what employers need’ is a simple principle of mine.
Inspired by Budhi’s journey? You can make a difference in the lives of immigrant professionals by helping them thrive in their careers. Become a mentor with TRIEC: Learn more here: https://www.mentoringpartnership.ca/join-us/become-a-mentor/