In our Mentor and Mentee Features series, we highlight a mentor and mentee partnership from our LaunchMe program and learn why thy took part and what they gained from the process. This time we speak to Tanya Zavhorodnia (Mentee) and Jennifer Khan (Mentor) from our LaunchMe 2026 cohort.
Tanya Zavhorodnia (Mentee)
Business Development Manager at RFA / Baruch College
I’m a recent Finance & Investments graduate from Baruch College, where I completed my degree while working full-time. I currently work in client relationship management and business development at Richard Fleischman & Associates, partnering with alternative investment firms on technology and cybersecurity solutions. Before that, I worked in venture capital and investor relations, focusing on due diligence, fundraising, and supporting relationships with institutional investors. My background is a bit unconventional because I originally studied medicine in Ukraine before transitioning into finance after moving to New York. That journey taught me resilience, adaptability, and how to embrace new challenges with curiosity. What excites me most about my future career is how dynamic the finance industry is and how much there is always to learn. I’m particularly interested in credit markets and alternative investment strategy, especially at the intersection of finance, technology, and global markets. I enjoy understanding how businesses operate, how macroeconomic trends shape decision-making, and combining analytical thinking with relationship-building. I’m also excited to continue growing through communities like 100 Women in Finance and learning from people with different experiences and perspectives.
Why did you join LaunchMe?
I joined LaunchMe because I wanted to connect with professionals and peers who are ambitious, curious, and supportive, while also gaining guidance from people with experiences different from my own.
What has been your favourite part of the mentorship program?
My favorite part of the program has definitely been the mentorship experience – especially working with my mentor, Jen. It’s been amazing how naturally our match worked out, and I really appreciate her guidance, perspective, and support throughout the program. I’ve also loved hearing about different career paths, learning from experienced professionals, and being part of a community that genuinely wants to help each other grow
What’s one goal where you’ve seen the most impact and what have you learned from your mentor?
One goal where I’ve seen the most impact has been gaining more clarity and confidence around my career direction. Since my background is a bit unconventional, it was really helpful to talk through different paths and hear honest advice from someone with experience in the industry.
I’ve learned a lot from Jen, especially about thinking long-term, staying open to opportunities, and trusting that careers don’t always have to follow a perfectly linear path. I’ve also really appreciated how supportive and genuine our conversations have been.
Jennifer Khan (Mentor)
Partner-IR CI.VC
I am a fundraising and IR professional; I really enjoy team building.
What drew you to mentor in LaunchMe and what’s been rewarding about the experience?
I want to support women in the financial industry; especially those earlier in her career, I feel like the more women in the industry who can succeed the better!
How has the relationship inspired or influenced you and what is one thing you’ve learned from your mentee.
I have been inspired by Tanya, her hard work, her ability to pivot when life has given her big twists in the road. Tanya continues to pursue education and growth in her career and I find her kindness is also really refreshing!
Any tips or encouragement for those entering the industry?
Early in your career finance is a tough industry, its take a lot of grit; try to be able to do it while still being authentic to yourself.