Built Different: How DM&C’s internship experience fuels growth
Former interns share how mentorship made an impact
- Sebastian Parra
At the heart of DAYO Media & Communications (DM&C) is a strong commitment to community and collaboration. These principles are deeply rooted in our core values: integrity, inclusivity, and impact. So, for us, mentorship isn’t just a philosophy: it’s the very essence of our culture.
During the firm’s earlier years, Dayo realized that young people were reaching out to learn more about the industry. She understood the need because, as a young journalist in the late 1990s, she developed the first mentorship program for students at the Canadian Association of Black Journalists. As DM&C developed over 25 years, Dayo has consistently welcomed young professionals to share hands-on media skills and develop content that elevates clients and those from marginalized communities.
"Mentorship isn’t about one-way teaching — it’s about building a space where ideas flow both ways. We really do grow by lifting others, embracing new perspectives, and creating impact together. The young people who have contributed to our team have truly been a differentiator in the industry,” said Dayo.
Work-integrated learning as a launchpad for growth
Curtis Hannam completed his internship with DM&C as part of his studies towards a Public Relations diploma at Humber College. He recalls his biggest ‘aha!’ moment was when he was tasked to work on the Harry Jerome Awards in 2023. “Seeing our community come together to celebrate excellence underscored the power of networking and teamwork, said Curtis.” Working alongside seasoned professionals pushed him out of his comfort zone. He says his internship at DM&C experience boosted his confidence in writing and mastering PR tools through fundamental client interactions.
Curtis Hannam, Public Relations Intern 2023.
“If you want to develop your Public Relations and graphic skills, DM&C will help you grow through hands-on experience and opportunities to follow your passions. It truly tailors intern experience to your interests.”
Finding confidence through storytelling
During her 2024 internship with DM&C, Shelilah Rosario supported the planning of the first anniversary press conference for the African Canadian Collective. During the project, she realized the goal for the event leaned heavily on storytelling and strategy. Leading initial conversations and managing media logistics taught her the importance of staying calm under pressure, taking initiative, and paying attention to details. Although she had experience in the industry in India prior to joining Humber College as an international student, she described her experience as “transformative,” She found a supportive team at DM&C who not only sharpened her abilities but also reshaped her self-perception.
"DM&C taught me that true communications is purposeful storytelling. The experience transformed my confidence, sharpened my skills, and showed me the impact of trusting my ideas."
Shelilah Rosario, Public Relations Intern 2024
Building up the next generation of leaders
Young professionals bring fresh ideas and perspectives, DM&C will continue to support the next generation of communicators by staying adaptable in an ever-evolving media landscape and staying true to our core belief that mentorship builds people. “We value our partnerships with post-secondary institutions as they play a vital role in supporting businesses like ours,” said Dayo. “Integrating passionate and capable students who can learn by contributing to our impactful projects is giving us access to the exciting, bright minds who will lead us in to the future.”
DM&C interships value integrity, inclusivity, and impact, where mentorship is at its core.
Are you a student looking for an internship? Fill out our Intern Application Form!
Written by Sebastian Parra, Spring Intern 2025
Editor, Aryana Singh, Marketing Coordinator
Oversight Editor, Dayo Kefentse, Founder and Managing Director
