Connection and Opportunity
We hosted our largest mentoring event of the year, our Speed Mentoring® Marathon, bringing together hundreds of jobseekers, mentors, alumni, and employers for an evening of networking, inspiration, and opportunity.
Now in its fifteenth year, the Speed Mentoring® Marathon has become one of our most anticipated events. It is a powerful platform where diverse talent connects directly with employers across multiple sectors to gain insights, build confidence, and open doors to employment.
Building Connections Across Sectors
This year’s event featured 12 sector-specific mentoring rooms, generating more than 1,000 connections between jobseekers and professionals from organizations across engineering, finance, technology, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, construction, and public service.
A heartfelt thank-you to our funder, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), our Program Donor, Scotiabank, and to our generous sponsors: Marriott Downtown at CF Eaton Centre, Starbucks, World Education Services (WES), CPA Ontario, Bruce Power, and Toronto Pearson for their partnership and commitment to building an inclusive and diverse workforce.
Inspiring Remarks and Mentorship in Action
The evening began with opening remarks from emcee and ACCES alumnus Tom Oluwole, followed remarks delivered by Andrea Robertson, Co-Chair of the ACCES Board of Directors.
President & CEO Allison Pond welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of mentorship in helping newcomers and skilled professionals overcome barriers to employment.
“Access to professional connections can often be the difference between a talented newcomer finding work or being overlooked,” said Pond. “Mentorship helps close that gap by creating opportunities to be seen, to learn, and to build the confidence that leads to long-term career success.”
Christine Charbonneau, Director, Settlement Network at IRCC, added:
“It’s not just about securing a job — it’s about building a future and contributing to communities.”
Tom Oluwole, ACCES alumnus and event emcee, reflected on his own journey:
“When my wife and I first arrived in Canada, ACCES helped us find our footing — not just in our careers, but in our confidence. Through mentorship, we were reminded of our value and the power of community. Today, as alumni and business owners, it’s a full circle moment to give back and help others build their futures.”
A Cycle of Mentorship and Community
The event concluded with a lively networking reception, giving participants the opportunity to continue their conversations and strengthen new professional connections.
“Each year, we see mentees return as mentors, creating a powerful cycle of giving back,” added Pond. “That is what makes this model so special. It multiplies impact and builds community.”
Continuing to Strengthen Ontario’s Workforce
We extend our sincere thanks to all participating mentors, employers, partners, and sponsors for helping make the 2025 Speed Mentoring® Marathon a success.
Together, these collective efforts continue to strengthen Ontario’s workforce and create inclusive pathways to employment for all.
Learn more about Speed Mentoring® and how you can get involved.
