Better together: how one mentor is turning lived experience into lasting impact

Her Allies volunteer Zakiya Simmons-Earl shares why she signed up to mentor, the meaningful connections she's helped forge, and why she believes everyone benefits when we show up for each other.

When Zakiya Simmons-Earl first heard about Her Allies, something clicked immediately. A consultant, mother, and seasoned professional, she didn't hesitate to raise her hand as a volunteer mentor — because she knew firsthand what it felt like to navigate life's hardest transitions without a safety net.

"The mission and vision both spoke to me. As a woman, mother, and professional, I understand firsthand the life changes that impact the ability to make money."

That personal history became her greatest qualification. Years ago, Zakiya found herself unemployed and raising her children on her own, with little support to lean on. That experience didn't just shape her; it gave her a roadmap she now shares freely with others.

"I didn't have much support when I was unemployed and raising my kids on my own. Sharing my experiences and knowledge to help someone navigate is the least that I can do in empowering their spirit."

Turning connections into opportunity

Zakiya was matched with a mom who stepped away from her career during the pandemic to be home with her children. Returning to the workforce now means navigating a completely changed landscape, and a pivot into a new technical field has made the job search even more challenging.

Zakiya got to work. She connected her mentee with a colleague in the desired field who offered candid, constructive feedback. Her mentee applied it to her resume right away. Then Zakiya brought in a talent recruiter from her network to connect her mentee with local recruiters. She also encouraged her to explore volunteer and co-op roles, and to tap into her local Chamber of Commerce for networking with nearby businesses.

"She thanked me for the connections and the recommendations."

The impact was immediate and practical, but the relationship ran deeper than résumé tips and referrals.

What mentorship gives back

Zakiya describes her greatest gift to her mentee as something no credential can teach: lived experience in the ebbs and flows of job searching, networking, and self-development. And what she received in return surprised her.

"My mentee appreciated my perspective and knowledge. She, in turn, provided me feedback that reaffirmed my lived experiences and how they have shaped the person I am today."

That mutual recognition is at the heart of what Zakiya says Her Allies is really about — not one person pouring into another, but two people recognizing how much they have in common.

"My experience with Her Allies reinforces that we are more alike than we are different. Our shared experiences prove that we are better together than separate, as we navigate corporate spaces and life events. We can grow stronger, move farther, and uplift higher when we work together rather than compete and compare."

Ready to make a difference? Volunteer with Her Allies.

Zakiya's message to anyone sitting on the fence is simple and direct: show up, be honest, and commit to growing together.

"People should volunteer as mentors and mentees because everyone benefits when we fully participate, share vulnerable experiences, and truly commit to learning and growing."

Whether you have lived experience to share or a goal you're working toward, there's a place for you in the Her Allies community. Sign up today and be part of something that lifts everyone higher.