Why did you decide to become a mentor?
I decided to become a mentor because I am deeply passionate about paying forward the invaluable guidance and support I received throughout my career journey. Mentoring allows me to share my experiences, insights, and lessons learned with others who are navigating similar paths in the tech and consulting industries. Moreover, being a mentor not only fulfills a sense of purpose but also enriches my own professional growth by fostering meaningful connections, refining leadership skills, and continuously learning from mentees' diverse perspectives and experiences.
How did you get your career start?
My career journey began with a blend of passion, persistence, and a bit of serendipity. Initially drawn to art and education, I found myself managing digital post-production projects at Warner Bros. and later scaling an education startup. However, my curiosity and desire for innovation led me to explore the burgeoning tech industry. Despite lacking coding skills, I devised a strategic plan to break into tech by leveraging my strengths in marketing and sales. This led me to secure roles at IBM, where I immersed myself in learning the intricacies of the industry while working on non-tech functions. Over time, my experiences in consulting at prestigious firms like Deloitte and PwC fueled my fascination with product management, ultimately paving the way for my current role as a Senior Manager at Palo Alto Networks, specializing in Mergers & Acquisitions and product management. Along the way, I've been fortunate to have strong mentors who guided me, challenged me, and supported me in pursuing my goals, shaping my career trajectory and instilling in me a passion for mentorship and continuous growth.
What do mentees usually come to you for?
Mentees typically seek guidance and support from me across a range of areas within the tech and consulting industries. Whether they're looking to break into these fields, navigate career transitions, or advance their professional growth, I provide tailored advice, insights, and strategies to help them achieve their goals. In my mentorships, I prioritize fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where mentees feel empowered to ask questions, share their challenges, and explore potential solutions. Through structured discussions, goal-setting exercises, and actionable feedback, mentees can expect to gain clarity on their career paths, develop essential skills, and build confidence in their abilities. Additionally, I offer practical resources, networking opportunities, and encouragement to help mentees overcome obstacles and thrive in their respective fields.
What's been your favourite mentorship success story so far?
One of my favorite mentorship success stories involves a mentee who was struggling to transition into the tech industry from a non-technical background. Through our mentorship sessions, we worked together to identify her transferable skills, refine her resume and LinkedIn profile, and develop a personalized strategy for breaking into tech. I provided guidance on networking strategies, interview preparation techniques, and resources for upskilling in relevant areas. Over time, I watched as she gained confidence, secured informational interviews, and eventually landed a coveted role at a leading tech company. Witnessing her transformation from uncertainty to success was incredibly rewarding, and it reinforced the power of mentorship in empowering individuals to achieve their career aspirations.
What are you getting out of being a mentor?
Being a mentor has enriched my life in numerous ways, both personally and professionally. Mentoring has sharpened my leadership skills, allowing me to hone my abilities in coaching, communication, and problem-solving. Through guiding others on their career journeys, I've gained a deeper understanding of my own strengths and areas for growth, fostering self-awareness and continuous improvement. Moreover, mentorship has expanded my network and connected me with talented individuals from diverse backgrounds, sparking meaningful collaborations and learning opportunities. Witnessing the growth and success of my mentees brings me immense fulfillment and reinforces my passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others. Ultimately, being a mentor has not only contributed to my professional growth but has also enriched my sense of purpose and fulfillment in both my career and personal life.