I often reflect on my journey from a nine-year-old immigrant arriving in Canada to co-founding Fintex Inc. It was not an easy path. My father passed away during the civil war in Sri Lanka, leaving my mother to raise four children on her own. When we moved to Canada, life was uncertain. We moved frequently, relied on support from family, and had to adapt to a completely new culture and system. Despite all the challenges, my mother made one thing very clear: education was our path forward.

Her guidance and resilience taught me lessons that have carried into every part of my life, especially in business and in giving back to the community. One of the values that has stayed with me is the importance of mentorship. I have learned firsthand how guidance, encouragement, and opportunity can change the course of someone’s life. This is why I have made mentoring immigrant youth and young professionals a priority.

The Power of Mentorship

Mentorship is more than giving advice. It is about listening, sharing experiences, and providing support in a way that empowers someone to take their next steps. I remember what it felt like to start over in a new country, unsure of what opportunities were available, and often intimidated by unfamiliar systems. Having someone guide you through that uncertainty can make all the difference.

Over the years, I have worked with many young people, helping them prepare for their first jobs, build confidence, and navigate the early stages of their careers. Seeing them succeed and grow has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Mentorship is not one-way. I have learned as much from these interactions as the people I have guided. Their curiosity, determination, and fresh perspectives inspire me to keep learning and improving.

Creating Opportunities

Mentorship goes hand-in-hand with creating opportunities. For immigrant youth, access to meaningful opportunities can be limited. There may be language barriers, lack of networks, or unfamiliarity with local systems. By providing guidance, introducing them to people in the industry, and sharing knowledge about professional development, mentors can open doors that might otherwise remain closed.

At Fintex, we have implemented programs to connect young professionals and interns with meaningful projects. These initiatives allow them to gain real-world experience, develop skills, and build confidence. Outside of work, I volunteer with organizations such as Youth Leadership Programs, where I serve as a judge for technology-focused competitions. These programs highlight talent, encourage leadership, and create pathways for young people to grow.

Lessons Learned Through Giving Back

Giving back is not just a responsibility. It is a privilege. Over the past decade, I have been involved in fundraising efforts to support families in need, and I have worked with my uncle to collect and distribute clothing to communities around the world. These experiences have taught me the importance of empathy, patience, and understanding.

Mentorship is similar. It requires time, attention, and genuine care. It also requires understanding that success is not the same for everyone. For some, it may mean landing a first job. For others, it may be developing the confidence to pursue higher education or start their own business. Mentors must meet people where they are and support them in achieving their own goals.

Bridging Generations

One of the things I value most is connecting generations. Many of the young people I mentor are immigrants or children of immigrants. They face challenges that I can relate to, and I can provide perspective based on my experiences. At the same time, they bring energy, creativity, and ideas that challenge my thinking. This exchange is enriching for both sides.

Mentorship also strengthens communities. When we invest time in young people, we help them build networks, develop leadership skills, and create a culture of giving back. They learn not only from the knowledge shared but also from seeing the value of helping others. This cycle creates stronger, more resilient communities where talent is nurtured and supported.

The Long-Term Impact

The impact of mentorship often goes beyond immediate results. I have stayed in touch with many individuals I have mentored, and it is inspiring to see them achieve milestones I could have only hoped for when I first arrived in Canada. Some have started their own businesses, others have pursued higher education, and many are mentoring the next generation themselves. This ripple effect is powerful.

It reminds me that success is not just about what you achieve personally but about how you lift others along the way. My own journey was shaped by the sacrifices of my mother and the support of my uncle. Giving back allows me to honor their efforts and ensure that others have the guidance and opportunities to succeed.

Encouraging Others to Step Up

Mentorship is not limited to business leaders. Anyone with experience, knowledge, or perspective can make a difference. It does not require grand gestures or formal programs. Even small actions, such as offering career advice, introducing someone to a professional connection, or providing encouragement, can create meaningful change.

I encourage anyone who has the capacity to step up. Share your knowledge, invest your time, and help someone build their path. For young immigrants in Canada, the guidance and opportunities you provide can be life-changing. For mentors, it is an opportunity to learn, grow, and make a lasting impact.

Mentorship and giving back have become central parts of my life. They are ways to create opportunities for the next generation, to share the lessons I have learned, and to honor the journey that brought me to where I am today. By supporting young people, especially immigrant youth, we can help them overcome barriers, discover their potential, and build meaningful careers.

I firmly believe that the Canadian dream is not just about personal success. It is about contributing to the community, lifting others, and creating pathways for those who come after us. Mentorship allows us to do exactly that. Every hour spent guiding someone, every opportunity shared, and every bit of encouragement given helps build a future that is brighter, stronger, and full of promise.