Celebrating mentorship and impact: National Volunteer Week at Windmill

As we mark National Volunteer Week, we’re shining a light on the incredible individuals who generously give their time and expertise to support newcomers to Canada. One of these dedicated mentors is Hazel Hetimier, a Senior Manager at Scotiabank, whose commitment to inclusive communities and meaningful mentorship has left a lasting impact.

Hazel joined Windmill as a mentor in 2024, driven by a deep commitment to inclusion and a desire to pay forward the support she once needed herself. “As an immigrant, I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate a new country, a new workforce,” she shared. “I wanted to use my experience to help others overcome those early challenges.”

Through the Windmill Mentorship Program, Hazel has supported skilled immigrants and refugees as they work toward their professional goals in Canada. She believes strongly in the transformative potential of mentorship: “Seeing my mentees grow in confidence and succeed in their careers—it’s incredibly fulfilling. That’s what keeps me coming back.”

Hazel’s story highlights what so many of our mentors discover: that giving time, guidance and encouragement doesn’t just change the lives of mentees—it builds stronger communities.

We’re proud to recognize the incredible support we receive from Scotiabank, through ScotiaRISE, Scotiabank’s community investment initiative. Our long-term partnership with Scotiabank has been instrumental in Windmill’s growth and our ability to meet the needs of a growing number of newcomers across Canada. Through ScotiaRISE, Scotiabank employees like Hazel also volunteer as mentors, sharing industry insights and offering tailored guidance to our clients.

Thank you everyone who gives their time to uplift the newcomers we serve. Whether you’re a first-time mentor or have supported multiple mentees, your contributions are making Canada a more inclusive and prosperous country.

If you are interested in supporting newcomers find career success in Canada, become a Windmill mentor today at https://www.windmillmicrolending.org/mentorship