Accelerate Auto launches new mentorship program to help support Black talent in Canada’s automotive industry
Accelerate Auto Connect launches with high-profile star mentors helping to develop the next generation of talent for Canada’s auto industry.
MISSISSAUGA, Oct. 17, 2022 — Accelerate Auto, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to increasing opportunities for Black talent in Canada’s automotive industry, held a kick-off event today at its Mississauga offices to launch the Accelerate Auto Connect mentorship program that connects high-profile industry leaders with the next generation of Black talent entering the auto industry.
The Accelerate Auto Connect pilot program officially launched Oct. 17, 2023, and is aimed at introducing college and university students as well as adult community partners with experienced career professionals in Canada’s auto industry.
“It’s hard for people outside any industry to really understand how to get started and how to succeed,” said Joyce Tshiamala, Accelerate Auto Board Member who served as the Project Lead of Accelerate Auto Connect. “We are so fortunate to have high-profile, successful leaders volunteer to help mentor the next generation and give them insights about how to navigate this industry and position themselves for great careers.”
Mentors who have volunteered for the pilot program include OEM leaders like Don Romano, President & CEO Hyundai Canada & Genesis Canada, industry association heads like Jean-Francois Champagne, President of the Aftermarket Industries Association of Canada (AIA), leading industry suppliers like Yolanda Biswah, President of Canadian Black Book, John Currado, President of taq Automotive Intelligence, Charles Fordjour, National Sales Manager, Aftermarket, with CARFAX Canada, Roger Linton, with Ten Steps Ahead Inc, Anne Marie Desando, VP National Sales Scotiabank Automotive Finance, and from the dealership world Mike Overholt, Regional Manager at Performance Auto Group.
“I’m very pleased to be taking part in this mentorship program,” said Yolanda Biswah, President of Canadian Black Book. “This industry needs more strong women, and more diversity of views and experience from our next generation. I’m happy to share my experience navigating my career journey as a Black woman working within Canada’s automotive industry — which is an incredible industry.”
“I was honoured to be asked to share some of my knowledge and experience with those considering or just entering the automotive industry,” said Don Romano, President & CEO of Hyundai Canada. “Our industry has a long way to go to be truly diverse, but by forging new connections and sharing ideas, I’m hopeful the next generation of talent will view automotive as an industry that is truly trying to be more inclusive to underrepresented groups.”
The Accelerate Auto Connect pilot is built on the platform of Ten Thousand Coffees (10KC) technology platform to help build connections and forge relationships. 10KC removes bias and create better skills-based matching that supports better outcomes through content, guides, conversation starters and smart nudges.
“10KC is the world's leading diversity-founded mentoring and networking platform. DEI relies on mentoring and networking relationships and we couldn’t be more proud to provide our tried and tested mentoring solution to support Accelerate Auto's advancement of underrepresented talent,” said Dave Wilkin, CEO 10KC.com.
10KC has deployed programs for clients like Nike, Thomson Reuters, JP Morgan, GE and 200+ other firms and is regularly covered for its innovations in marketing in publications like Forbes, Fast Company and Fortune.
Look for more updates on this program in the coming months as it rolls out across the automotive industry.
About Accelerate Auto
Accelerate Auto is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to increasing Black representation in the Canadian automotive industry. We provide Black talent and youth with access to mentorship for skills building and peer networking to support professional growth and career development.
We facilitate career pathing through the form of internships to attract more Black talent to automotive and build awareness of opportunities within the industry. We are dedicated to creating a stronger and more diverse automotive workforce. www.accelerateauto.ca
For media inquiries please contact:
Jennifer Okoeguale
jennifer.okoeguale@accelerateauto.ca