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Empower students and boost your professional growth

January 02, 2026

It’s no secret that giving back feels good. In fact, as SFU psychology professor Lara Aknin’s research has shown, helping others can increase happiness and well-being.

But what if giving back also helped you grow? That’s the power of mentorship: a relationship that benefits both mentee and mentor.

For SFU alumni across British Columbia, Beedie Luminaries offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact through mentorship while also gaining fresh perspectives and professional growth. By mentoring a student who’s navigating their academic and career journey, you’ll help them succeed while boosting your own skills and connections along the way—and you’ll feel good doing it! With over 1,000 students supported across British Columbia, and 34% being first-generation post-secondary students, there are many opportunities for SFU alumni to get involved!

How mentoring can benefit you:  

  • Strengthen your leadership and coaching skills
    Guiding a mentee sharpens your ability to motivate, problem-solve, and provide constructive feedback, skills that translate directly into personal and professional growth.
  • Build meaningful community impact and personal fulfillment
    Helping a student chart their academic and professional path—and seeing them overcome barriers and thrive—can also deepen your own sense of purpose and community belonging.
  • Expand your professional network and resources
    Looking to broaden your personal and professional network? Mentorship often opens doors to new connections with alumni and industry professionals across diverse fields.
  • Stay current and gain fresh perspectives
    Mentorship is a two-way street: learning from your mentee’s ideas and insights will keep you plugged into emerging trends and innovations—especially in rapidly-growing disciplines.

What’s involved?

With a network of 300+ mentors actively engaged in the program, Beedie Luminaries asks mentors for a minimum two-year commitment: meeting with your mentee at least once a month for one hour, either in-person, virtually, or hybrid. Mentors must be B.C.-based and come from a variety of careers and backgrounds. If you’re passionate about supporting students and sharing your experience, this is your chance to make a difference.

About Beedie Luminaries

Beedie Luminaries is a social-profit initiative dedicated to leveling the playing field for promising students across B.C. who face financial hardship. Through scholarships and wrap-around support—grounded in values of innovation, empathy, integrity, and collaboration—they empower students financially, as well as through community, belonging, and personal growth.