At Success Works, volunteer mentors play a critical role in supporting women as they build confidence, regain direction, and transition into employment. In this interview we speak with Liz Krnjak, a long‑standing Success Works mentor, about her journey into mentoring, what she has learned from working with candidates, and the impact the experience has had on her personally.
1. To start, can you tell us a little about yourself and your connection to Success Works?
I’m a mother of two young adult children. Originally from Melbourne, I’ve lived in Sydney for over 30 years. I began my career with a short stint in radio before moving into Banking – and never left! I worked with a number of Banks over the next three decades, in project delivery and customer experience. I was drawn to the structure and stability of the industry – it felt grounding and aligned with my strengths.
I have been a mentor at Success Works for around 2.5 years and have worked with a number of candidates in that time.
2. What motivated you to volunteer as a mentor supporting women into employment?
My son was my inspiration to join Success Works! After chatting with him a few years ago about his criminology studies and his plans to volunteer with disadvantaged youth, I felt so inspired that I went looking for my own organisation to support. I quickly came across Success Works and felt excited about the opportunity to help others using my skills. The idea of helping women return to the workforce and start building their future was greatly appealing.
3. What has been one of the most rewarding moments you’ve experienced as a Success Works mentor?
Supporting a candidate in building her self-worth and emotional readiness, such that she was able to secure a new job. Seeing the transformation was rewarding.
4. From your experience, what skill or mindset most helps candidates successfully transition into work?
Believing in yourself is probably the most important aspect of finding a new job. Self-worth is really the starting point for this process. Through mentoring, candidates can grow in their self-confidence and know that they have valuable experience and skills to offer to the workplace.
5. What’s a common challenge candidates face, and how do you help them work through it?
A common challenge can be having a number of different career choices without a narrow focus on a particular type of role. Whilst it’s helpful to be open to opportunities, it’s also useful to have some clarity on your work being sought. My approach is to help candidates reflect on their past experiences – what they’ve enjoyed, the skills they’ve liked using and the working environments they feel most comfortable – and combine them with personal interests and values.
6. How has volunteering with Success Works impacted you personally or professionally?
Volunteering with Success Works has been a very humbling experience for me. I feel fortunate to be connecting with candidates and supporting their journey back into the workforce. I’m also grateful for the care and support from Success Works and for allowing me to join a nurturing community where people give so generously to support others.
7. What advice would you like to share with candidates who are still finding their feet on their employment journey?
The job search process can be daunting for anyone and breaking it down into smaller steps can make it easier. My advice would be to lean into the process – even when it feels uncomfortable, as that’s often where the growth happens.
Take the time to explore the types of roles that interest you, the skills you enjoy using and the work environments you feel most comfortable in. Take your time with this, it’s a valuable self-reflection. Your mentor (and Success Works) can help you prepare your resume and build the confidence for your interviews.
Getting to this point is usually the hardest part. Once you’re here, the right opportunity will show up when you feel ready.
Closing
Liz’s reflections highlight the power of mentoring grounded in care, confidence, and lived experience. Her generosity, insight, and commitment continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of women supported through Success Works. We are deeply grateful to Liz and to all of our volunteer mentors who give their time and expertise to help women build confidence, clarity, and pathways into employment.
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