Mentorships
How AAMD’s M.I.N.D. program is building confidence and creating meaningful connections
By Grace Talbert
Property Manager, Avenue5 Residential
Prior to the first meeting of AAMD's M.I.N.D. (Mentoring In New Dimensions) program, we remember feeling very shy and anxious as Assistant Property Managers. We thought constantly: “Am I really just here to network with the big dogs? What if they don’t even notice me? What if they never remember my name? Is this really going to help me get promoted?”
At the time, we didn't realize how prominent this mentorship program would become within AAMD. Looking back, we realize we had so many “big dogs” in our corners, looking out for us along the way.
Melisa Mireles-Caraveo, for instance, remembers her key mentors: Scott Allen, Jenny Jorgensen, and Orpain Williams, who really pushed that shy and anxious Assistant Manager to come out of her shell, experience new things, and embrace every opportunity to learn something new.
In 2026, Melisa was paired with Naomi Marquez from Willow Bridge, and has had the opportunity to listen to and learn from Naomi’s wisdom and advice, though much of it goes far beyond property management. Naomi has taught her to stand up for herself, both in her personal life and career, and to have more confidence in the value she brings to the table.
Similarly, my experience has been incredibly valuable to my personal and professional growth. My mentor, Orapin Williams from Woodspear Properties, has taught me the importance of being authentic when approaching different situations and taking the time to fully understand something before acting on it. Orapin’s guidance has helped me become more thoughtful, confident, and intentional in the way I communicate and make decisions.
The MIND program is more than a networking opportunity. It is a community built on growth and encouragement. It helps once-shy professionals find their confidence, supports mentees in their journeys, and inspires mentors to step out of their comfort zones. The relationships built through MIND reach beyond job titles and company names, creating lasting connections with people who genuinely want to see others succeed. As MIND continues to grow, so does its impact, proving that sometimes all it takes is having the right people in your corner to recognize your potential.