by StreetWise Partners
March 18, 2025

"It takes a village, and StreetWise is a large area of that village. We all need someone to lean on. A mentor reminds us where to focus and where we want to go." 

As we honor Women's History Month, it is the perfect time to shine a light on extraordinary mentor-mentee relationships that empower women to overcome challenges and achieve their dreams. Today, we share the inspiring story of Debra Yarnall and Kala Taylor, whose connection blossomed through shared struggles and mutual support. 

Finding Common Ground in Adversity 

Debra and Kala met each other in 2023. Debra had learned about StreetWise Partners during an industry conference and signed up to be a mentor. Kala learned about StreetWise from her best friend and decided that StreetWise Bridge would help launch her career. Both were navigating difficult transitions—Debra had recently left her Human Resources job after a company layoff, while Kala was aiming to enter the professional workforce after being employed as a nanny for eight years. "We were both floundering and unsure of our next steps," Debra recalls. Their shared experiences of job transitions and uncertainty created a common perspective and bond, allowing them to relate deeply to one another. 

"I loved her passionate personality from the first day," Kala shares. "We just clicked." This initial connection set the stage for a transformative mentorship that would lead both women toward fulfilling careers. At the same company, no less. 

The Power of Guidance and Support 

Debra, with her extensive experience in recruitment, quickly took on an active role in helping Kala refine her job search strategies. "I helped her update her resume within the first week of meeting her," Debra explains. "It was crucial to showcase her management experience beyond her time as a nanny." With Debra's guidance, Kala learned the importance of tailoring her resume for specific job applications, leading to remarkable results. While they were paired up in the StreetWise Bridge Program, Debra landed a role as Head of Talent Acquisition, Americas at Circana.  

There were many opportunities, interviews and refinements to Kala’s resume and interviewing strategy over the months during and following the program. The supportive dynamic between them, driven by Debra’s guidance and Kala’s resolve to find the right fit, paid off. When a role matching Kala’s skills and lifestyle opened at Circana, Debra immediately put her in the interview pool. In just a few weeks, Kala landed the position as a Senior Analyst at Circana, a role that not only utilized her skills but also offered the life flexibility she needs as a mother of three. "I’m doing something I’ve always wanted to do," Kala beams. "I love numbers, and this job allows me to make a great contribution to both my employer and my family. At the same time." 

Resilience and Growth 

Their journey was not without challenges. Both women faced setbacks and moments of self-doubt, yet they leaned on each other for encouragement. "We cried together and celebrated each other's victories," Debra shares. Their empathy for one another and shared determination to succeed cemented their partnership. 

"We were always vocal in our meetings and sessions," Debra says with a smile. "It was about pushing each other to keep going, even when things got tough." This spirit of resilience is at the heart of their success. 

Looking Ahead 

As they reflect on their careers, both Debra and Kala emphasize the importance of community and support. "It takes a village, and StreetWise is a large area of that village," Kala states.

"We all need someone to lean on. A mentor reminds us where to focus and where we want to go." Debra echoes this sentiment, highlighting that mentorship transcends gender and background. "It's about connecting on a shared human level and understanding what someone needs to grow."  

Kala is already contemplating her future as a mentor, inspired by the impact Debra has had on her life. "Maybe one day I’ll be able to help someone else," she shares. "I want to give back to StreetWise as a mentor too." 

We are currently recruiting mentees and mentors for our Spring cycle. This is your time to sign up and create an amazing connection through mentorship!