Why did you decide to become a mentor?
Becoming a mentor is a natural extension of my passion for learning and growth, both personally and professionally. Throughout my career journey as a technology leader, I've put lots of effort into developing a well-rounded skillset of both technical expertise and critical soft skills (EQ, time management, habit building, strategic thinking etc). This multifaceted experience has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge and wisdom that I'm eager to share with others. By serving as a mentor, I have the opportunity to share this multifaceted experience equipped with a wealth of knowledge and wisdom and accelerate the career trajectories of aspiring individuals. Mentorship allows me to give back to the community, strengthen my leadership capabilities, and contribute to building a more skilled workforce.
How did you get your career start?
From a young age, I've been driven by curiosity to learn from any experience and expand my horizons. This mindset has been instrumental in shaping my career path. Rather than waiting for opportunities to fall into my lap, I proactively sought out connections with strong leaders and mentors who could share their wisdom and guidance. Equally important was my belief in my capabilities. This combination of curiosity and self-confidence has been the foundation for my career journey, helping me navigate the early stages and unlock new avenues of growth.
What do mentees usually come to you for?
When mentees come to me, I first take the time to understand their current state - their existing knowledge, skills, and experience. This initial assessment allows me to get a clear picture of where they are starting from. From there, I work collaboratively with each mentee to develop a customized roadmap for their growth and development. Every week, we review progress, identify areas for improvement, and make adjustments to the plan as needed. Whether it's sharpening technical capabilities, building soft skills, or exploring new career paths, I provide guidance and resources to help my mentees be empowered with the knowledge, strategies, and confidence to achieve their goals and advance their careers.
What's been your favourite mentorship success story so far?
One of my most rewarding mentorship experiences was working with a highly talented but introverted engineer who aspired to transition into a technical sales role. While his technical expertise was exceptional, he struggled with the softer skills required to build trust and effectively communicate complex solutions to customers. I worked with him to not only address any remaining technical gaps but also to cultivate his self-awareness and emotional intelligence. We practised active listening, public speaking, and storytelling techniques that would allow him to connect with clients on a deeper level. With dedication and an open mindset, my mentee became an impactful sales professional who consistently exceeded his targets.
What are you getting out of being a mentor?
Being a mentor is a truly rewarding experience for me, both professionally and personally. It's humbling to play a role in someone's career journey. The lessons I learn from each mentoring relationship strengthen my skills, emotional intelligence, and ability to connect with and inspire others. The mentorship process has also reinforced my commitment to continuous learning and made me a more capable and impactful professional. Overall, mentoring is a fulfilling experience and I'm grateful for this opportunity to support the next generation of leaders.