Bridging Gaps and Building Futures: A Conversation with Justyna Kedra on Mentorship and Innovation at WERULE

In today's rapidly evolving landscape, mentorship is more crucial than ever, especially for women navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Justyna Kedra, founder of WERULE, is at the forefront of this movement, advocating for female founders and leveraging innovative technology to bridge gaps in mentorship. As someone who graduated from Parsons without a mentor—coming from a working-class background in Poland—I understand firsthand the importance of guidance in achieving success. In this Q&A, Justyna shares her insights on the significance of mentorship in the digital age and her vision for WERULE amidst the competitive landscape.

Justyna, what inspired you to create WERULE, and how does it address the mentorship gap for women?

When I founded WERULE, I was driven by the desire to create a space where women could connect, share experiences, and support one another in their entrepreneurial journeys. The lack of accessible mentorship has always struck me as a significant barrier for women, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. By leveraging technology, WERULE aims to democratize mentorship, making it available to anyone who seeks guidance. We provide resources that empower women to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship, focusing on building a robust community that fosters collaboration and learning.

In today’s digital age, mentorship is no longer a luxury but a necessity. The growing digital divide highlights this need even further, as many aspiring female entrepreneurs lack access to the networks and resources that can help them succeed. WERULE is committed to bridging these gaps, ensuring that every woman has the opportunity to find a mentor who can guide her. Our platform not only connects mentors and mentees but also emphasizes the importance of shared knowledge, helping women build the skills they need to thrive in their industries.

You’ve mentioned the competitive landscape of mentorship platforms. How do you see WERULE standing out in this space?

The mentorship landscape is evolving rapidly, with AI and various other platforms emerging to cater to this need. However, many of these solutions have yet to achieve mass scale or truly resonate with the unique challenges faced by women. At WERULE, we believe that personalization is key. While AI can provide useful tools, it often lacks the human touch that is essential in mentorship. Our approach focuses on creating meaningful connections between mentors and mentees, allowing for authentic relationships that can drive real impact.

Looking ahead, I foresee a significant battle among platforms striving for dominance in mentorship innovation. At WERULE, we are committed to not only participating in this competition but also to leading it. Our strategy involves continuously refining our offerings based on user feedback and industry trends, ensuring we remain at the forefront of mentorship solutions. By prioritizing community and inclusivity, we aim to create a mentorship ecosystem that empowers women to not only overcome obstacles but also to thrive and innovate in their fields.

Can you share how mentorship has played a role in your own career and leadership development?

Mentorship has been a transformative force in my life and career. As someone who graduated from Parsons without a strong support system, I initially struggled to find my footing in a competitive environment. However, as I sought out mentors, I realized how invaluable their guidance could be. They taught me not only about industry-specific skills but also about leadership and confidence. Their encouragement pushed me to embrace opportunities I would have otherwise shied away from, leading to numerous awards and recognition.

Through my mentors, I learned the importance of being a leader who inspires others. They provided insights into navigating challenges, and their belief in my potential helped me cultivate a resilient mindset. This journey has reinforced my belief that mentorship is non-negotiable; it’s about creating a support system that helps you grow, take risks, and ultimately succeed. I strive to replicate this experience for others through WERULE, ensuring that women have access to the same kind of support that helped shape my journey.

In your opinion, why is mentorship especially critical for women today?

Mentorship is particularly vital for women today as we face a multitude of challenges in the entrepreneurial landscape. The increasing digital divide and the ongoing struggle for gender equity in business mean that many women still encounter systemic barriers that hinder their success. Mentorship provides a powerful counterbalance to these challenges by offering guidance, resources, and connections that can significantly enhance a woman’s career trajectory. It’s an essential component in empowering women to break through glass ceilings and achieve their goals.

Moreover, mentorship fosters a sense of community and solidarity among women. By sharing experiences and insights, women can collectively navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship, making it less daunting. In this way, mentorship becomes a catalyst for change, helping to create a more equitable environment where women can thrive. At WERULE, we are passionate about amplifying these voices and ensuring that every woman feels supported in her journey.

What is your vision for the future of mentorship at WERULE, and what do you hope to achieve?

My vision for WERULE is to build an unparalleled mentorship platform that not only connects women with mentors but also equips them with the tools they need to succeed. I believe we are on the brink of a mentorship revolution, and I want WERULE to be at the helm of this change. Our goal is to innovate continuously, leveraging technology to enhance the mentoring experience while maintaining the human connections that are so vital. This involves integrating features that allow for more personalized matchmaking and creating resources that facilitate ongoing learning and development.

As we move forward, I anticipate a competitive landscape where only the most dedicated and innovative platforms will rise to the top. I am determined that WERULE will emerge as a leader in mentorship innovation. By staying attuned to the needs of our community and fostering an inclusive environment, we aim to redefine what mentorship looks like for future generations of women. Together, we can not only navigate the challenges we face today but also pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for all women entrepreneurs.

If you are looking to get a mentor or advisor, click here! Connect with Justyna on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Inspired & Ready to Level Up? Get A Mentor, Change Your Life.

After immersing yourself in the transformative stories of visionary female founders on WERULE, it’s time to elevate your journey to new heights. Imagine a world where ambition meets unparalleled guidance—our network of advisors is your gateway to that reality. Handpicked for their brilliance and success, these mentors are ready to empower you with strategic insights and bespoke support tailored to your aspirations. Don’t just dream big; take action and connect with the minds that are shaping the future. Your empire awaits—explore our advisors and unleash your potential!

Or click here to learn more about our work as we’re on a mission to make mentorship accessible to everyone around the world.