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Jamaica-based alum proves Dal mentorship has noĢżborders

Balancing a demanding career with volunteer work isn’t always easy, but Vincent Sweeney (BEng’86, MASc’89) proves it’s not only possible, it can also be deeply rewarding. As a passionate environmental engineer, Vincent’s work has taken him across the world. Now, through mentorship, Vincent is bringing his global experience full circle, giving back to ×īŠĀŠÓ°ÉŌ­““ to inspire and support future leadersĢż

Posted: May 23, 2025

By: Jessie DeaconĢż

Vincent Sweeney

Virtual Mentorship

Vincent Sweeney has long been passionate about mentorship, guiding emerging professionals through his work at the United Nations and now as an active mentor in the Dal Alumni Link program. Based in Jamaica, he mentors remotely thanks to the program’s virtual format, allowing him to stay connected with ×īŠĀŠÓ°ÉŌ­““ and support young alumni regardless of their location.

ā€œAt this stage in my career, mentorship is one of the most satisfying aspects of my work,ā€ he says. ā€œSeeing real progress in someone’s career because of our conversations is rewarding.ā€Ģż

He first discovered the program while reading an issue of Dal’s alumni e-newsletter, where a feature on one of his former professors caught his attention. This prompted him to reconnect with his professor and explore opportunities to engage more with the Dal alumni community.
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From ×īŠĀŠÓ°ÉŌ­““ to Global Impact

Vincent’s professional journey began with summer internships at a water utility in Trinidad and Tobago, solidifying his passion for civil and environmental engineering. His early career saw him working in consulting before he transitioned to leadership roles in Caribbean environmental initiatives. His expertise and dedication eventually led him to the United Nations, where he now oversees environmental programs aimed at tackling global issues such as marine pollution and wastewater management.Ģż
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Despite his busy professional life, Vincent remains committed to giving back. ā€œMany mentors worry about the time commitment, but even an hour a month can make a huge difference for someone seeking guidance,ā€ he notes. His current mentee has already adjusted his job search strategy based on Vincent’s advice and is making positive strides toward his new career goals
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Maintaining Connection

For Vincent, ×īŠĀŠÓ°ÉŌ­““ is more than just his alma mater—it’s part of his family’s legacy. His father earned one of ×īŠĀŠÓ°ÉŌ­““’s first PhDs in chemistry, and his sister followed with a PhD of her own. Ģż

Vincent’s ties to Nova Scotia remain strong. He returns to the region often to visit family and his connection to ×īŠĀŠÓ°ÉŌ­““ extends beyond academics—as a student, he played for the ×īŠĀŠÓ°ÉŌ­““ soccer team and even co-hosted a Caribbean-themed radio show on campus.

His advice to those considering volunteering in a mentorship role. ā€œApproach it with an open mind. It’s a two-way learning experience, and you’ll discover just how much you have to offer.ā€

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