Alumni Mentorship: A Catalyst for Change
Jonathan Hera (IMBA ’10) has always had a passion for giving. While at Schulich completing his studies, he specialized in Social Sector Management, formerly Nonprofit Management, with the goal of making a difference globally. Now six years later, he is the Director of Investments for Grand Challenges Canada, a non-profit organization funded by the Government of Canada that provides catalytic funding to global health innovators in low- and middle-income countries and Canada as they scale their solutions toward greater sustainability and impact in order save and improve lives.
On the home front, he has stayed connected to his alma mater by founding the Schulich MBA elective course “Social Purpose Investing and Finance”, advises Schulich’s MBA Impact Investing Network and Training (MIINT) student teams, and has volunteered as an alumni mentor for four years. The drive to help the next generation of business leaders succeed comes from both his educational experience and commitment to growing the impact investing industry.
“During my time at Schulich there were a couple of great alumni I was able to connect with who steered me in the right direction,” Hera said. “Impact investing in Canada is a small and growing field, and I am eager to help any passionate students realize the opportunities in the space and break into the industry.”
Jonathan has taught nearly ten different alumni who, having taken his course, have gone into the field. Even if students choose a different path, the guidance and experience gained in the Alumni Mentorship Program will assist new graduates in their professional endeavors.
“For me, giving back to others is essential for a content life. While we can always learn something from others, regardless of their stature, I find it very useful to learn from someone who is just a few steps ahead of where I currently am (and somewhere I want to be) – the steps to their success are more tangible and I can relate to and understand the path they’ve taken. Now, I am just a few years ahead of my students and mentees, which is why I so enjoy the opportunity to support them in their pursuits ,” Hera said.
To learn more or become an alumni mentor click here.