Betty B. Pavelich  

Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia

After a career that has spanned more than 30 years and three continents, I have been extremely fortunate to work in my field of university study, political science, since graduating from the University of Ottawa in the late 1980s.  My participation in the Canadian political system, as well as my 15 years of service with parliamentarians in the Canadian House of Commons, followed by senior diplomatic roles in the Croatian Foreign Service, have honed my skills and knowledge in a number of areas that could be of potential benefit to mentees. Those areas of expertise include: 

• International relations and diplomacy 

• Public administration 

• Government/public affairs 

• Political science and engagement (including campaign management) 

• Policy development – local, national and international 

• Communications (speech writing, production of communications materials, media relations, public relations) 

• Professional network development  

• Work-life balance 

I would be happy to share my experiences, insights and advice with mentees interested in a career in public service or international relations with a view to informing and helping to prepare for a rewarding and at times very demanding career.