By Soudabeh (Sudi) Zabet
(2024 LYP Program Participant & Scholarship Winner)
The LYP Women’s Leadership & Career Development Program far exceeded my expectations and has been one of the most transformative experiences in my professional journey. Under the guidance of the incredible and award-winning leaders and mentors, Dr. Jean Kim and Lilit Simonyan, I not only gained invaluable leadership skills but also found a community of strong, ambitious, and supportive women. This sense of sisterhood, paired with practical tools and mentorship, has been an eternal gift that continues to shape my growth.
One of the most significant areas of learning for me was strategic networking. Through the program's strategic networking sessions and discussions, I gained the confidence to communicate effectively at networking events. I now understand the importance of building and nurturing meaningful connections that can offer long-term support and opportunities.
Another area that deeply resonated with me was personal leadership. LYP provided the tools and insights for self-reflection and personal growth, helping me step outside my comfort zone. I learned to identify my leadership style, refine my strengths, and embrace my capabilities as a professional woman. This growth has allowed me to take on greater challenges, make confident decisions, and pursue leadership roles with clarity and purpose.
The program’s focus on strategic career action planning has also been invaluable. LYP guided me to set clear, actionable goals and develop a concrete roadmap for my professional future. I walked away with a renewed sense of direction, knowing how to align my work with my values and passions. For example, it pushed me to pursue my dreams of contributing to the health sector, empowering immigrant communities, and growing as a leader in project management and research roles.
What sets the LYP program apart is its holistic approach to career development. Beyond skills and strategies, it encourages women to take ownership of their happiness, advocate for themselves, and share their stories with confidence. This empowering mindset has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth.
Equally important, the program taught me the significance of work-life balance and self-care. I learned to prioritize my well-being alongside my career ambitions, recognizing that personal growth and self-care are essential for sustainable success. This mindset has allowed me to maintain focus and energy while pursuing my professional goals.
Since completing the program, I’ve seen significant progress in my career. I stepped into a leadership role as a Project Coordinator, where I apply the skills and confidence I gained through LYP. I also reached a major milestone by securing a Research Assistant position at Toronto Metropolitan University. These achievements were fueled by the program’s emphasis on leadership development, networking, and strategic planning.
I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of this transformative program. The LYP program not only gave me the tools to thrive in my career but also empowered me to lift others, especially immigrant women, as I continue to grow. To any professional woman seeking confidence, clarity, and leadership growth, I highly recommend the LYP program—it’s a gift that keeps on giving.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Soudabeh (Sudi) Zabet is a Project Coordinator and Research Assistant with a Master's degree in Environmental Data Analytics from Wilfrid Laurier University. With experience in qualitative and quantitative research, and a focus on immigrant advocacy, data analysis, and the integration of spatial analysis and strategic planning to support social equity initiatives, she is passionate about empowering vulnerable immigrant communities. Learn more about her work and connect with her on LinkedIn.
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