I didn’t have a traditional path to leadership.
I dropped out of high school. At that point in my life, my potential was not obvious, especially to me. The only reason I am where I am today – leading an organization I deeply believe in – is because a few key people saw more in me than I saw in myself. They encouraged me, invested in me and pushed me when I wasn’t sure I deserved the opportunity.
They were my mentors, and quite honestly, they packed my parachute.
There’s a story often shared about a World War II pilot whose plane was hit during combat. Forced to eject, he trusted that his parachute would open and save his life. Years later, he met the sailor who had packed that parachute. The person whose intentional work made survival possible.
That story is the inspiration behind this year’s JA She LEADS fundraising event theme: Who packed your parachute?
None of us get where we are alone.
At Junior Achievement Northern Alberta, we see every day how mentorship can change a future. This International Women’s Day, we are focusing on the impact mentorship – particularly from women – has on young girls, and how early exposure to strong female role models can fundamentally shift their confidence and aspirations.
Initiatives like JA She LEADS connect girls with women from the business community who share their stories honestly. Not just the highlights, but the setbacks, self-doubt, career pivots and resilience it takes to keep going.
For many participants, this is the first time they meet a woman who leads a business, manages a team, builds a career or takes risks. That moment matters. It quietly expands what they believe is possible for themselves.
Mentorship doesn’t always feel dramatic. Often it’s a conversation, a question asked at the right moment, or someone simply saying, “I see potential in you.” Those moments add up. They become the parachute that opens when confidence falters or circumstances get tough.
In business, we talk a lot about future talent development and workforce readiness. If we’re serious about any of it, mentorship isn’t optional; it’s foundational. Especially for girls who may not yet see themselves in leadership, entrepreneurship or business at all.
As women in business, we have a unique opportunity – and responsibility – to reach back. To be visible. To share what we’ve learned. To encourage ambition, confidence and leadership for the next generation.
This International Women’s Day, I encourage you to reflect on your own journey. Who packed your parachute? Who saw potential in you before you were ready to see it yourself?
Then ask the next question: whose parachute could you help pack?
Getting involved with JA through programs like JA She LEADS is one powerful way to do that. Your time, your experience and your willingness to show up can change a young person’s life.
I know it changed mine.
Learn more about JA She LEADS and how to get involved at https://janorthalberta.org/upcoming-events/she-leads/