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In the rapidly evolving world of technology, mentorship programs play a pivotal role, with studies showing that 87% of professionals credit mentorship for their career success (source: Harvard Business Review). These programs aren't just optional add-ons but essential assets that drive development, spark innovation, and cultivate a supportive network. In this discourse, we explore the significance of technology-related mentorship programs, backed by data indicating a 92% increase in job satisfaction among mentored individuals (source: Forbes). Additionally, we dissect effective strategies and underscore the indispensable role of networking in shaping a prosperous STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) career.

The Significance of Technology-Related Mentorship Programs

Knowledge Transfer and Skill Enhancement: Mentorship programs play a vital role in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Experienced mentors share industry insights, best practices, and provide practical guidance, equipping mentees with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

Personalized Guidance and Support: In the dynamic world of technology, one-size-fits-all approaches rarely lead to optimal results. Mentorship programs offer personalized guidance tailored to each mentee's unique strengths, interests, and aspirations. This customized approach fosters confidence, encourages self-discovery, and empowers mentees to realize their full potential.

Career Advancement and Professional Growth: In an increasingly competitive job market, mentorship can be a differentiator that propels individuals toward career advancement. Mentors, not just as guides but as advocates, open doors to new opportunities, provide constructive feedback, and steer mentees toward professional milestones. This support and guidance can make all the difference in a mentee's career journey.

Best Practices in Approaching Mentorship Programs

Define Clear Objectives: Before embarking on a mentorship journey, it is essential to define clear objectives and expectations. Whether seeking guidance on a specific technology stack, career transition advice, or entrepreneurial insights, clarity of purpose sets the foundation for a fruitful mentorship relationship.

Seek Diversity in Mentorship: Diversity enriches mentorship experiences, offering varied perspectives and insights. Embrace mentorship opportunities that span diverse domains, industries, and backgrounds, facilitating holistic learning and broadening horizons.

Commit to Continuous Learning: Mentorship is a reciprocal relationship that thrives on mutual learning and growth. Approach mentorship with a growth mindset, actively seeking feedback, embracing challenges, and remaining open to new ideas and perspectives.

Finding the Right Mentor: A Journey of Exploration and Connection

Finding a mentor who aligns with your goals, values, and aspirations can be likened to embarking on a journey of exploration and connection. Rather than seeking a mentor solely based on technical prowess or professional accolades, prioritize compatibility in communication styles, shared interests, and cultural alignment. Look beyond conventional mentorship platforms and explore avenues such as professional associations, networking events, and social media communities to identify potential mentors who resonate with your vision and mission. Remember, mentorship is not a one-size-fits-all proposition; it is a dynamic relationship built on trust, mutual respect, and shared aspirations. Invest time and effort in cultivating meaningful connections, and let the mentorship journey unfold organically, enriching your professional journey with wisdom, guidance, and camaraderie.

Our top 5:

Enter Toronto's dynamic tech ecosystem and unlock limitless opportunities with specialized mentorship programs. Tailored to diverse interests and backgrounds, these initiatives offer invaluable guidance and support for professionals, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts alike. Presented below are some examples:

Hispanotech Mentorship Program:

Description: Hispanotech offers a mentorship program to support Hispanic individuals in the Toronto tech community. Mentors provide guidance, networking opportunities, and cultural support to help mentees thrive in the tech industry.

Website: https://hispanotech.ca/mentorship/ 

TechTO Mentorship Program:

Description: TechTO offers a mentorship program connecting aspiring tech professionals with experienced mentors in the Toronto tech community. Mentors provide guidance, share industry insights, and help mentees navigate their career paths.

Website: https://www.techto.org/

Ladies Learning Code Mentorship Program:

Description: Ladies Learning Code offers a mentorship program that empowers women and non-binary individuals in technology. Mentors provide support, technical guidance, and networking opportunities to help mentees advance in their tech careers.

Website: https://www.canadalearningcode.ca/

Toronto Public Library Digital Innovation Hub Mentorship Program:

Description: The Toronto Public Library's Digital Innovation Hub offers a mentorship program that connects individuals with expertise in various technology fields. Mentors assist participants with digital skills development, project-based learning, and entrepreneurship support.

Website: https://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/using-the-library/computer-services/innovation-spaces/

Techstars Toronto Mentorship Program:

Description: Techstars Toronto, a global startup accelerator, offers a mentorship program connecting early-stage tech startups with seasoned entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. Mentors provide guidance, networking opportunities, and valuable insights to help startups succeed.

Website: https://www.techstars.com/accelerators/toronto

The Importance of Networking in a STEAM Career

Expanding Opportunities: Networking creates opportunities, opening doors to career-enhancing prospects such as job openings, collaborative projects, and mentorship opportunities. Building a robust professional network nurtures a fertile ground for career growth and advancement.

Knowledge Exchange and Collaboration: In the interconnected realm of STEAM, collaboration fuels innovation and drives progress. Networking facilitates knowledge exchange, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and synergistic partnerships that propel technological advancements.

Professional Support System: The journey in a STEAM career is rife with challenges and uncertainties. A strong professional network acts as a support system, offering guidance, mentorship, and emotional support during moments of triumph and tribulation.

Fostering Inclusion and Diversity in Mentorship Programs

In the pursuit of equitable opportunities and inclusive growth, it is imperative to embed principles of diversity and inclusion within mentorship programs. Embracing diversity enriches mentorship experiences and cultivates a culture of belonging where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued and empowered to contribute. Mentorship programs should actively strive to include underrepresented groups such as women, minorities, and individuals from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. By embracing diversity in mentorship, we amplify historically marginalized voices and harness the power of varied perspectives to drive innovation and create a more inclusive tech ecosystem.

In conclusion, technology-related mentorship programs serve as linchpins in nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and driving professional growth in the STEAM landscape. By embracing mentorship, individuals can embark on a transformative journey toward realizing their full potential and making meaningful contributions to the ever-evolving world of technology. Coupled with strategic networking endeavours, mentorship amplifies opportunities, fuels collaboration, and cultivates a thriving ecosystem where aspiring technologists can flourish.

In my previous article about Mentorships, called “How to enrich our career by becoming a Mentor”, I mentioned that participating in a Mentorship Program as a Mentor was a fantastic way to benefit from a sense of fulfillment and personal growth while giving back to the community. In addition, as a mentor, we develop or enhance our interpersonal, leadership, and management skills.

Now that we know our why, in this article, I will cover how to be an amazing mentor: One that will not only cause a positive impact on your mentee, but also on our professional and personal growth.

Here are seven tips to help you excel as a mentor:

1.    Build a Strong Relationship:

• Connect at a personal level: Take the time to understand your mentee’s goals, aspirations, and challenges. Building trust and rapport is essential.
• Set clear expectations: Define the scope of your mentorship relationship, including communication frequency and goals.

2.    Share your Knowledge and Experience:

• Transfer skills: Share your technical expertise, best practices, and industry insights.
• Discuss real-world scenarios: Use practical examples to illustrate concepts and problem-solving approaches.
• Encourage continuous learning: Help your mentee stay updated on the latest technologies and trends.

3.    Provide Constructive Feedback:

• Be specific: Offer feedback that is actionable and relevant.
• Highlight strengths: Acknowledge your mentee’s progress and achievements.
• Address areas for improvement: Gently guide them toward growth opportunities.

4.    Empower Independence:

• Teach problem-solving: Encourage critical thinking and guide them to find solutions independently.
• Promote autonomy: Allow your mentee to make decisions and learn from their experiences.

5.    Be a Role Model:

• Demonstrate professionalism: Show integrity, punctuality, and a strong work ethic.
• Share your journey: Talk about your career path, challenges, and how you overcame them.

6.    Listen Actively:

• Be empathetic: Understand your mentee’s perspective and emotions.
• Ask open-ended questions: Encourage reflection and more profound discussions.

7.    Celebrate Achievements:

• Acknowledge milestones: Celebrate both small and significant wins.
• Boost confidence: Remind your mentee of their progress and potential.

Remember, effective mentorship is a two-way street. While you guide your mentee, you will also learn and grow as a mentor.

About the author: 

Gabriel Seminario is a Full-Stack Marketer who has provided mentorship to multiple MBA students and Startups Executives in the fields of Marketing Strategy, Brand, and Communications in Canada and Latin America. In addition, he has been a key player in the organization and promotion of Hispanotech Mentorship Program since 2019.

How did you find out about Hispanotech?

I first learned about Hispanotech at an event hosted by York University, where I'm enrolled in a program for Internationally Educated Professionals (IEP) in Management. It was there that I met Carlos Paz-Soldan and Citlalli Rios, and we immediately connected while discussing Hispanotech's mission.

What inspired you to become a volunteer at Hispanotech?

Honestly, I decided to volunteer based on the advice of my classmates, who emphasized its value in achieving career goals. Despite initial time constraints, I reached out to Hispanotech expressing my interest, eventually securing a spot on the project management team.

How did you feel about the experience and what did you do at Hispanotech?

Although project management wasn't my primary focus, I eagerly embraced the opportunity to learn new skills. While lacking extensive technical expertise, my background in operations management provided a solid foundation. With guidance from Gabriel Sorozabal, I familiarized myself with tools like Jira and Confluence. Volunteering at Hispanotech not only allowed me to showcase my abilities but also kept me focused during challenging times.

After contributing to the project management team and supporting the event committee, I embraced the chance to lead the Operations department, leveraging my extensive managerial experience gained from roles held in my home country. Working closely with President Carlos Paz-Soldan, who entrusted me with this responsibility, I played a pivotal role in establishing and optimizing operational processes. This encompassed tasks such as creating comprehensive documentation, training volunteers, and overseeing task execution to ensure smooth operations.

Currently, I am actively involved in various capacities such as Team Leader, Quality Assurance, and as a member of the management team. I remain committed to Hispanotech because, several months ago, I connected deeply with the organization's mission and recognized the significance of assisting newcomers in integrating into the Canadian professional job market.

Tell us a little about your background, and the job opportunity you were looking for…

As a Systems Engineer with over 10 years of experience in managerial roles such as team leader, supervisor, and operations manager, along with certification in Business Administration, I've consistently found fulfillment in leading teams and optimizing processes. Pursuing further studies in Management, I aimed to leverage my expertise to drive growth and innovation within organizations. With a strong interest in AI technology, my goal is to enhance businesses' productivity and employee satisfaction through strategic application and implementation.

How has been your Hispanotech volunteering experience, did it help you to get a job?

My volunteering experience at Hispanotech played a pivotal role in securing my position as a Business Analyst for AI services. I have demonstrated my abilities, responsibility, and skills, particularly within the Operations team, where I honed my project management, process optimization, and team leadership skills. This experience provided me with the adaptability and collaboration skills essential for the dynamic field of AI services.

Any final recommendation for other members who are not sure whether to become volunteers?

Volunteering is worthwhile if you can commit the time and effort required. Quality, not quantity, of contributions is key. Hispanotech provided me with invaluable opportunities for professional growth and fulfillment, making it a rewarding experience. I'm grateful for the chance to be part of Hispanotech and continue contributing to its mission.

I resonate deeply with Hispanotech because they foster an environment where I'm encouraged to think critically and contribute creatively. This quote by Steve Jobs encapsulates the essence of its approach: 'It doesn't make sense to hire smart people and tell them what to do; we hire smart people so they can tell us what to do.'

It is undeniable that Artificial Intelligence is entering many industries, helping professionals to be more efficient while performing their jobs. As a marketer, the help of AI is crucial to streamline the process of content creation and distribution, including the development of text, audio, and video. In Marketing, I consider AI as a tool that we, professionals, should master to remain competitive.

However, in the past days I was wondering if AI would be as effective in the Coaching field, as well. Currently, AI is revolutionizing the field of coaching by providing coaches with innovative tools and techniques to improve their effectiveness. It offers diverse options like virtual coaching assistants and personalized learning programs, allowing coaches to optimize their strategies and enhance their clients' results and overall satisfaction, as data and computing power become more accessible.

Let’s imagine a potential future where, we, individuals, will not need, and in some cases, will prefer to communicate with an AI chatbot instead of a human. Think about it, perhaps people will prefer to open up their deepest thoughts to a non-judgmental bot instead of a human. However, the other side of the coin is also important to consider: Will people accept the advice of a chatbot? Will they enjoy a conversation with an artificial machine?

Will AI replace coaches?

In my opinion, AI will not replace jobs that need empathy, social skills, rapport and human connection. I find value in the role of human coaches, especially in health, lifestyle, and business coaching. However, to remain competitive, coaches will need to use AI as an assistance, for example, using chatbots to gather information, surveys, and research on their clients.

These chatbots can respond 24/7 to frequently asked questions, giving real-time feedback on progress, and giving recommendations for the next actions in the coaching procedure. Additionally, artificial intelligence tools can be used to examine such information applying predictive analytics.

Predictive analytics in coaching involves using historical data to predict future events. It can be utilized to recognize patterns in client behavior and anticipate upcoming challenges or opportunities. By utilizing this information, coaches can modify their strategies to better cater to their clients’ needs.

What do you think? Would you prefer a human coach or an AI coach?

If you are interested in this topic, find below valuable resources:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2023/05/04/pros-and-cons-of-coaching-with-ai/

https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2023/09/how-could-ai-shape-the-future-of-career-coaching/

https://upcoach.com/5-ways-ai-will-impact-the-future-of-coaching/

-- By Gabriel Seminario

I joined Hispanotech in 2019 (the same year I came to Canada). In 2022, by then with more relevant professional experience in Canada and having accomplished some important milestones, I wanted to explore opportunities for growth and collaboration; and decided to volunteer as mentor in the 2022 mentorship program.

It represented a turning point and since then it has been a remarkable experience as volunteer. It is still fresh in my mind the first in-person activity of that year’s mentorship program. That day I witnessed how this organization is cemented on a network of brilliant people with a bright future; some of them already shining and others with all the potential to shine.

After a wonderful experience as mentor and knowing the potential of our community, especially amazed by those new to Canada, I decided to commit more time to Hispanotech and collaborate further. Having had experience in management, leading programs and projects, combined with my experience as teacher/trainer/mentor along with my technological background, somehow opened the door to lead the 2023 mentorship program.

I took the challenge as a director of the program in 2023, and embarked on this new endeavour, convinced that it would be an opportunity to help others in a different level. “12 weeks to transform someone’s life” through the mentorship program, was our motivation and inspiration, something that we took seriously at all levels in the organization.

Being a newcomer is a unique opportunity to reinvent or become a better version of ourselves. It represents a new chapter in the book of our lives where we continue writing or rewriting our story every day. The story can either follow the same plot or can turn into a different one, but the way we tell and write our story is up to us.

In that sense, the 2023 mentorship program was intended and designed as an inside out process and a transformational journey where we offered the tools and guidance to help our mentees define, design and set their goals for a successful life in Canada – the beginning of a new wonderful chapter; a journey that goes from the philosophical and strategic, to the tactical and pragmatic.

It’s difficult to summarize the effort involved to deliver a mentorship program of this magnitude, but what is more remarkable is the passion, dedication and vocation of so many people; some of them working numerous or countless hours. From the mentors, the amazing mentorship team, the different committees and work groups; the synergy, enthusiasm and team effort that I could experience was exceptional, especial, and was key for the success of the program.

Finally, but not the least, the most rewarding and fulfilling part of the program is to see and read the testimony of the mentees. The bonds created, the achievements (small or big), the growth, the learnings, the experience, the transformation itself, sometimes tangible, sometimes intangible; it all gives you the sentiment and confidence that rather sooner than later, they will be doing great things and will make our community bigger, better and prouder.

-- By Nestor Castro

Hey! Stop scrolling through social media and take a moment to read this post till the end—it could change the way you interact with technology in your active job search and bring a new level of awareness to your mental health.

Have you ever wondered about the consequences of incessant scrolling habits in this digital age? It's fascinating to note that, according to data from datareportal.com, the average person dedicates almost two and a half hours daily to social media platforms. It's a substantial chunk of our daily lives. But what's more interesting is understanding the intricate effects of this seemingly harmless activity on our mental well-being. So, let's dive beneath the surface, exploring the profound implications of the perpetual scroll on mental health and examining the neurological responses triggered by our constant digital engagement.

Neurologically, scrolling through social media platforms activates the brain's reward system. The instant gratification of new content releases dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This biochemical reaction forms a loop where users are compelled to keep scrolling, seeking that subsequent satisfaction hit. However, the relentless pursuit of digital rewards has its consequences.

Prolonged exposure to the infinite scroll contributes to cognitive overload, a state where the brain is overwhelmed by a constant influx of information. With an abundance of images, updates, and news, individuals find it challenging to focus, leading to heightened stress and anxiety levels. Moreover, the curated nature of social media content can distort reality, fostering unrealistic expectations and perpetuating feelings of inadequacy.

The constant exposure to curated content and the fear of missing out (FOMO) create a breeding ground for procrastination, diverting our attention from tasks like job seeking. The instant gratification of scrolling competes with the delayed rewards of completing work, fostering a cycle that can hinder productivity and impact our mental state over time.

The Social Media Illusion: Unmasking the Strain

Moreover, in the grand theatre of social media, where everyone plays a role, and every post is a carefully curated scene, the line between reality and illusion blurs. The constant exposure to filtered depictions of seemingly perfect lives can foster unrealistic expectations and trigger feelings of inadequacy. The unrelenting pressure to measure up to these curated standards can, over time, contribute to stress, anxiety, and a negative self-perception.

In a study published by the Journal of Abnormal Psychology, researchers found a significant increase in major depression and suicidal thoughts among young adults in the United States, correlating with the rise of social media use. The curated nature of the content, often showcasing idealized versions of life, can create a distorted reality that fosters a sense of social isolation and an inability to meet societal standards.

On the flip side, social media scrolling has become a double-edged sword for job seekers navigating the world of employment opportunities. On one hand, platforms like LinkedIn offer valuable insights into job postings, company cultures, and industry trends, empowering individuals in their quest for the perfect job. On the contrary, the constant influx of information can easily lead to information overload and distraction. Endless scrolling may create a sense of accomplishment without tangible progress in the job search. Striking a balance between leveraging social media for networking and job discovery while avoiding the pitfalls of mindless scrolling is crucial for job seekers aiming to stay focused, motivated, and effective in pursuing career opportunities.

Finding Balance: Cultivating a Healthy Digital Diet

In addition, promoting digital detox practices, such as designating screen-free hours and incorporating mindfulness into online interactions, can contribute to a more positive online experience. Explore these five digital detox apps and practices designed to help you break away from prolonged screen exposure, fostering a healthier equilibrium with technology:

Forest App:

This app helps users stay focused and present by growing a virtual tree during a set period when they're not using their phone. If users exit the app, the tree dies. Over time, users can grow a forest and track their progress in reducing screen time.

Moment:

Moment tracks your daily screen time and app usage, providing insights into your digital habits. It also allows you to set daily limits for specific apps and send reminders when exceeding them. The app encourages users to create healthier screen time habits.

Space:

Space offers a personalized digital detox experience, allowing users to set goals for reducing screen time and providing insights into app usage patterns. It also offers guided meditations to help users relax and detach from their devices.

Noisli:

While not a traditional digital detox app, Noisli helps users relax and focus by providing ambient sounds like rain, waves, or white noise. This can be an excellent tool for creating a calm environment and encouraging users to avoid the constant buzz of notifications.

Offline Activities:

Sometimes, the best digital detox involves offline activities. Encourage users to engage in hobbies like reading a physical book, walking, or practicing mindfulness and meditation without digital assistance. Disconnecting physically can often lead to a more meaningful detox.

To sum it up, our digital behaviours profoundly influence our mental health, and understanding this connection empowers us to make positive changes. Whether you opt for digital detox apps or unwind with offline activities, the goal is to strike a balance that fosters a healthier relationship with technology. Remember, small changes in our digital habits can significantly improve our mental well-being. Here's to creating a more mindful and balanced tech experience!

-- By Daniel Faura

Revolutionizing Canadian Roads: Electric Cars and Sustainability in 5 Years

Sustainability is a concept in constant evolution, and one of the sectors where its impact is most evident is the automotive industry. In Canada, the adoption of electric cars has been steadily increasing, and in the next five years, this trend is expected to accelerate even further. In this article, we will explore how sustainability and electric cars are shaping the future of mobility in Canada in the short term.

Electric cars have gained ground in Canada in recent years, partly due to a heightened focus on sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Canadian consumers are increasingly concerned about the environment and seek cleaner alternatives for their daily commutes. So far, electric car sales in Canada have been steadily on the rise, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years. In five years, based on projections regarding the increase in electric cars in Canada, the market share in Canada is projected to increase significantly, surpassing 10% of total new vehicle sales.

The Canadian government is committed to promoting sustainable mobility and has implemented a range of incentives to encourage the adoption of electric cars. These incentives include purchase price discounts, tax exemptions, and grants for installing charging stations in homes and public places. Canada has set ambitious goals to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles. The Canadian government has expressed its aim for one in five vehicles sold in the country to be electric by 2026. This initiative reflects the country's commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions in the transportation sector. With this goal in mind, Canada is implementing policies and programs to support the adoption of electric cars, which could position the country as a global leader in sustainable mobility in the coming years.

However, it is essential to note that although electric cars offer benefits in terms of emissions and ongoing use, the production of their batteries and components can have specific significant environmental impacts. The extraction and processing of materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are used in electric car batteries, can have negative environmental consequences, such as soil degradation and water pollution in extraction areas. Additionally, battery manufacturing requires a considerable amount of energy and can generate emissions during the production process. Nevertheless, it is crucial to highlight that these concerns are being addressed by the industry, with a growing focus on improving production efficiency and adopting more sustainable practices as technology advances. Ultimately, despite these challenges in production, electric cars remain a more environmentally friendly option in the long term when considering their entire lifecycle compared to internal combustion engine vehicles.

On the other hand, despite efforts to promote the adoption of electric vehicles in Canada, significant challenges continue to hinder the transition to a more sustainable automobile fleet. One key obstacle is the additional cost of purchasing an electric vehicle compared to traditional internal combustion engine models. While government incentives seek to mitigate this disparity, the higher initial price can still be a barrier for many consumers. Furthermore, the limited availability of electric charging stations in some regions of the country presents challenges regarding convenience and autonomy, which can raise doubts among those considering the switch to electric mobility. Overcoming these obstacles will be essential to achieving Canada's ambitious electric vehicle adoption targets by 2026.

Another notable challenge electric car drivers in Canada face, significantly during winter, is reduced vehicle range. Cold temperatures can adversely affect battery performance, reducing the distance an electric car can travel on a single charge. The need to heat the car's interior and defrost windows also contributes to additional energy consumption. This winter range issue has prompted manufacturers to develop more advanced thermal management technologies and offer solutions such as heated seats to ensure electric car owners can confidently face the Canadian winter.

In the next five years, we can expect significant improvements in charging infrastructure across Canada. This will make it easier for more people to transition to electric cars, as they will be confident that they can conveniently and quickly charge their vehicles anywhere in the country. Furthermore, Canada is working on expanding its clean energy generation capacity, meaning that the electricity used to charge electric cars will become increasingly sustainable. Hydroelectric, solar, and wind energy will be crucial in transitioning toward more sustainable mobility. In summary, the next five years promise an exciting landscape for sustainability and electric cars in Canada. The widespread adoption of electric cars will help reduce air pollution and decrease the country's carbon footprint, making investing in electric cars a safe bet for Canada's future.

By Daniel Faura

Follow me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielfaura/

Navigating the Sustainable Skies: Transforming Aviation and Airports for a Greener Tomorrow

Based on my roughly six-month tenure at Lufthansa, the aviation industry is at a critical juncture where sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity. With the increasing need to reduce carbon emissions and confront climate change head-on, the aviation industry is preparing for its next major evolution. A single long-distance flight can generate more carbon emissions in a few hours than the average person in 56 countries does in a year. In this article, we will discuss the significance of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) and emphasize key metrics that demonstrate their central role in shaping the future of aviation. In addition, we will investigate how airports are becoming concentrates for sustainable aviation fuel.

Increased scrutiny is being placed on the aviation industry for its contribution to total CO2 emissions. Sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) have emerged as an effective answer to this problem (IATA, n.d.). SAFs, which are derived from renewable resources such as biomass, algae, or carbon capture technologies, can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional aviation fuels. In contrast to fossil fuels, which contribute to global CO2 emissions, SAF recycles the CO2 absorbed by the biomass used as feedstock throughout its existence (Shine, 2023).

Despite their potential, SAFs face several obstacles, including scalability and cost of production. Bio-based fuels currently account for less than 0.1% of total aviation fuel consumption. Many question why SAFs are not utilized more frequently. The answer resides in the need for a global commitment in the first place. However, there are several obstacles, including the expensive nature of new technologies and production methods. Another barrier is the dearth of waste-based feedstock.

Boosting SAF production is essential. The aviation industry must invest in research and development, infrastructure, and production capacity to make SAFs accessible and affordable. Governments and aviation industry stakeholders play a crucial role in encouraging SAF adoption through favorable policies and regulations to make SAFs more accessible and cost-effective, paving the way for their eventual widespread adoption. Countries like Canada have moved in the right direction through initiatives like the Canadian Council for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (C-SAF) (Lorrain, 2022). However, a coordinated global effort is required to make SAFs the norm in the aviation industry.

Additionally, airports are transforming into sustainable aviation centers (World Economic Forum , 2023). These centers contribute substantially to carbon emissions and require substantial investment to reduce their environmental impact. The "Airports of Tomorrow" are designed with eco-friendly infrastructure, including electric ground support equipment, energy-efficient terminals, and sustainable energy sources. Critical metrics include the extent of these investments and the availability of SAFs at airports, which is pivotal in fostering their adoption.

It is essential for industry-wide adoption that SAFs and sustainable airport infrastructure are economically viable. We can contribute to this transformation as travelers. Consider which airport to land at and which airline to select for your upcoming vacation. Choose destinations that prioritize sustainability and airlines that actively support SAFs and environmentally friendly airport infrastructure. Keep in mind that we are all part of the pollution chain and that reducing our impact is a shared responsibility. We can collectively propel the aviation industry toward a greener, more sustainable future by making conscientious decisions.

By Kiomi Kunigami 

Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiomi-kunigami/

Blockchain for sustainability

Blockchain technology has the potential to revolutionize sustainability efforts across various industries. By providing a transparent, decentralized, and immutable ledger, blockchain can enhance supply chain traceability, ensure fair trade practices, and drive more sustainable business practices. Latin America shows great potential in planning and developing blockchain solutions for multiple use cases.

For instance, in the fashion industry, blockchain can enable consumers to track the entire lifecycle of a garment, from raw materials sourcing to production processes, thereby promoting ethical and sustainable fashion choices. In the energy sector, blockchain can facilitate peer-to-peer energy trading, enabling individuals and communities to generate, consume, and sell renewable energy, fostering a decentralized and sustainable energy system. 

There are currently a few projects in development in Latin America, for example, FAO, through the +Cotton Project, is already implementing the UNECE-UN/CEFACT standard and methodology in Latin America, working with Costach Cooperative, which groups more than 5,200 farming families and is providing 10 tonnes of sustainable cotton production for a blockchain pilot, to increase traceability and transparency of the fiber production processes, woven yarn and garment manufacturing, with an end objective to trace the cotton fibre from field to shelf

In addition, Nestlé will use blockchain to increase traceability for milk sourced in New Zealand before expanding the technology to Latin America for palm oil, whereas Cabify is reinforcing its environmental commitment by applying blockchain technology to the emissions offset project and expanding its initiatives to new countries.  The company is already working on the integration of the API (Application Programming Interface) developed by Climate Trade, with which the carbon footprint per trip of users and companies who travel with the application can be tracked. This allows users to see in real time the footprint that is created during their trip, and Cabify compensates for this and transparently promotes the acquisition of carbon-neutral services.

New reports shed light on the potential blockchain holds for climate mitigation solutions and illustrate a road map to accelerate the clean energy, low-carbon transition, and climate change mitigation through blockchain technology, providing a framework for linking climate financing with climate accounting.

Overall, blockchain holds immense promise in promoting transparency, trust, and accountability, which are vital for building a more sustainable future, especially in emerging countries in Latin America.

References:

https://unece.org/media/press/363667

https://www.foodnavigator-latam.com/Article/2019/07/04/Nestle-to-trial-blockchain-for-palm-oil-in-Latin-America

https://www.atalayar.com/en/articulo/new-technologies-innovation/cabify-will-use-blockchain-offset-its-carbon-footprint/20201203225419148711.html

https://www.unep.org/resources/report/blockchain-sustainable-energy-and-climate-global-south

Citlalli Rios, Director of Alliances

I'm Citlalli. I'm proudly Mexican-Canadian; I landed in Canada with a bachelor's and a master's degree and over ten years of experience in a middle management position.

Since arriving in Canada, I have participated in several volunteering projects. With Hispanotech, it started with me being a mentee and volunteer, then became a mentor. I finally decided to take on a board member position, leading the Membership Committee and, later on, the Alliances Committee. 

My journey has had its ups and downs. It took me some years to get to a salary and seniority level that were aligned with my experience. It has also involved lots of learning and adapting to new realities. I feel proud of my journey and grateful to everyone who has supported my integration. 

For newcomers, finding a job in their field or seniority level is especially tough, primarily due to the hassle of building new local professional networks. That's what networking is all about! Other reasons are employers not recognizing international experience and education credentials, lack of transparency or access to vacant positions, contradicting or confusing information, cultural fit and unconscious biases, to name a few. On top of the added stress of caring for their family, multiple administrative errands to secure a home, car, health insurance, school, and even wayfinding are overwhelming in a new country. 

Cornered, newcomers grapple with finding "survival jobs" to comply with the Canadian experience (archaic) requirements. Hispanotech is essential in assisting new Canadians in the challenging integration into the Canadian labour markets. We also help professionals already working in their field who want to advance their careers navigating the Canadian corporate culture. 

We do so by organizing networking events, providing learning and development opportunities, and showcasing our member's achievements with the occasional social gathering. We also offer ongoing volunteering opportunities, which can become a first referral to the most committed volunteers when applying for jobs.

Hispanotech also facilitates a structured mentorship program that pairs up experienced individuals with newcomers who need help integrating into the job market, transitioning into a new position, or advancing their careers. I've had the opportunity to mentor three brilliant, talented, kind and resourceful professionals through this program so far.

Our membership comprises experienced professionals willing to give back and help new immigrants navigate the intricacies of the Canadian job market. Everyone learns in the process. I see our association's positive impact on our members and the community. It is a challenging task, balancing our volunteering efforts with personal and professional priorities, but it's worth it.

As a Director of Alliances, I've effectively connected several dots with stakeholders that have helped us build bridges and find new, meaningful collaborations. I'm a lifelong learner, constantly identifying new ways to leverage our current partnerships and innovative ways to reach potential partners. I always consider what our members need at the different stages of their immigrant pathway.

What else can we do then? The first step in solving any problem is identifying and being aware. The Canadian government, employers and several social advocacy groups know these issues. Many associations are avidly working towards achieving a truly diverse and inclusive job market where everyone can thrive regardless of age, gender, nationality or personality type. Hispanotech is doing its part in closing several of these gaps. We partner with other associations to cross-promote events and benefits. We also work closely with multiple corporate Latin ERGs and maintain contact with all Latin American Consulates and several bridging programs to know of new collaborations and perks we can offer our members.

A final message: be curious, adaptable and take care of your health, including your mental health. Connect with intentionality and understand your strengths and limitations. At Hispanotech, we are there for you. There are plenty of ways to get the support you need to overcome your professional challenges.

About Hispanotech and the author

Federally incorporated in 2008, Hispanotech is a 100%-volunteer-led and run not-for-profit corporation that aims to help Latin American professionals integrate and advance their careers in Canada.

Our programs and activities target Latin American STEM professionals; however, everybody is welcome to join. Please become a member, volunteer with us, and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Citlalli is passionate about diversity, equity, women empowerment, and sustainability. In her current role at eCampusOntario, Citlalli is promoting digital transformation for businesses in Ontario through innovation and collaboration. In addition, she loves networking, mentoring, and supporting the Latino community in Canada through Hispanotech as their Director for Alliances and a few other associations.

Connect with Citlalli https://www.linkedin.com/in/citlalli