Petrina (L) and Tania (R): A dynamic duo bridging knowledge gaps and driving innovation in the WASH sector
Welcome to “Voices of Change,” a blog series dedicated to sharing the transformative stories of individuals who have participated in our Women in WASH Mentorship Program, in collaboration with the Rural Water Supply Network. Through the eyes of these emerging leaders, we witness the power of mentorship, cultural exchange, and professional growth within the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sector.
We invite you to explore these stories with us and join in celebrating the inspiring individuals who are shaping the future of WASH!
A journey of growth: Petrina’s mentee experience
I was selected by my organization to join the Women in WASH Mentorship Programme, marking my first-ever mentorship experience. After two attempts, I was finally matched with my mentor, Tania. Over six months, Tania and I built a strong, supportive relationship that went beyond professional collaboration to a personal connection.
Tania’s expertise in the WASH sector, particularly her use of social art to influence behavior change, was an eye-opener for me. She introduced me to innovative behavior approaches and the concept of “new masculinities,” using tools like drama, music, and poetry to encourage sustainable WASH behaviors. This gave me a fresh perspective on implementing WASH projects within my organization.
She also shared a wealth of resources with me—free online courses, reading materials, and even a personality test. Taking this test was a first for me and helped me rediscover myself while clarifying my career goals.
The Women in WASH Mentorship Programme is empowering women like me to bridge the gender gap in a traditionally male-dominated field. By connecting emerging professionals with experienced mentors, the program promotes knowledge sharing, skill development, and confidence building. Supporting this initiative is vital for fostering diverse leadership, driving innovation, and advancing social equity within the WASH sector.
Investing in mentorship programs like this not only strengthens the WASH sector but also benefits women and communities worldwide. My first mentorship experience was a transformative journey, and I wholeheartedly recommend it. I look forward to joining the next session!
Petrina Dery
A mentor’s perspective: Tania Vachon on mentoring Petrina
From Tania’s perspective, mentoring Petrina highlighted the common challenges faced across WASH projects:
“Mentoring Petrina confirmed that many of us face similar hurdles in WASH projects. It reminded me of the importance of finding new ways to collaborate and create synergies that could amplify our impact. Seeing her strength and determination to build a better future for her community was also incredibly inspiring.”
The mentorship also deepened Tania’s advocacy for participatory approaches to community change, moving beyond traditional methods:
“I shared resources and events in the WASH sector that she could explore as learning opportunities. Beyond that, I emphasized the importance of going past standard communication strategies for behavior change and embracing more creative, participatory approaches to community-driven solutions.”
For Tania, the Women in WASH Mentorship Programme represents more than personal development—it’s a catalyst for transformation across the sector:
“Mentoring is one of the many ways we can accelerate the leadership needed to drive the sustainable changes our sector requires. This program creates connections that otherwise might never happen, fostering the exchange of ideas and insights that would have been invaluable when I first started navigating the WASH system.”