Bridging divides and fostering wellbeing is crucial in our interconnected world. This is the path of Natalija Vojno, an environmental peacebuilder supporting the growth of aspiring entrepreneurs as a mentor with the Centre for Entrepreneurship’s (CfE) Venture Mentoring Service (VMS), a role shaped by her global experience in inclusive governance and collaborative action.
Vojno describes her work as residing at the intersection of water policy and positive peace. Her Master’s degrees in Water Resource Management and Public Policy, coupled with specialized training in mediation, have equipped her to champion diverse perspectives. From speaking at the United Nations (UN) High-Level Political Forum to facilitating dialogues between Indigenous communities and municipal governments, she demonstrates a steadfast commitment to practical collaboration that cultivates peace and a sense of belonging.
Drawing inspiration from her favourite Rilke poem and its concept of ‘Widening Circles’ – a philosophy in action symbolizing healing, peace, and the understanding that ‘home is Earth’ – Vojno actively fosters compassion and shared values as a mentor. This approach is further realized through her prioritization of collaboration, a skill honed through a mutual gains approach to mediation and negotiation, which enables the development of respectful relationships. For Vojno, mentorship is fundamentally about nurturing and honouring these connections. Vojno's work is a powerful source of motivation for her. She finds excitement in “the mission – the work I get to do and the people I get to do it with.” Even with her vast network and career connections, she finds inspiration in her mentee, who has reminded her of the importance of self-compassion. “My mentee has such a beautiful and holistic vision – she sets high goals and works tirelessly to achieve them. A lesson I learned watching her exceed each new milestone is to be kind to yourself because you're already doing so much.”
Reflecting on her decision to join VMS, Vojno explains, “I wish this program had been around when I was an undergrad, I would have eagerly participated. Supporting aspiring entrepreneurs now is the next best thing.” She also admits to being surprised by her own learning, saying, “there’s always more to learn the more we engage with others and listen.” For aspiring entrepreneurs in search of a mentor, she emphasizes, “understand your values and ensure they resonate with those who are more experienced in your field.”
Vojno recognizes the VMS program’s significant contribution to the entrepreneurial ecosystem, noting, “it is a highly organized, structured, and supportive platform that empowers the U of T Arts & Science community to launch and expand ventures that might otherwise remain unrealized. It truly unlocks the potential of a new generation of entrepreneurs.”
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Feeling inspired? Learn more about the Venture Mentoring Service. Recruitment of mentors and mentees for the next cycle of the program will begin in Spring 2025 – stay tuned for more details!