Shahzeb Naveed – Meet the Mentor

Why did you decide to become a mentor?

I chose to become a mentor, driven by a belief in the transformative power of guidance and shared knowledge. Beyond assisting aspiring data scientists in their growth, mentoring has become a dynamic avenue for my personal and professional enrichment. This has significantly enhanced my ability to navigate challenges with a broader perspective, contributing to my overall growth as a leader. Most crucially, being a mentor provides an unparalleled sense of fulfillment. Observing the growth and success of aspiring data scientists under my guidance is immensely gratifying. It adds a layer of purpose to my professional journey, creating a meaningful connection between the success of others and my own sense of accomplishment. In essence, mentorship is a holistic experience that goes beyond the transmission of knowledge, encompassing personal growth, leadership development, improved communication, and a deep sense of fulfillment derived from the success of those I guide.

How did you get your career start?

My career journey began in Supply Chain at P&G through an internship program during my bachelor's. I later joined Unilever in their manufacturing operations department. I later transitioned into data science through my Master's at the University of Waterloo, drawing inspiration from strong mentors who guided me. Their influence, coupled with a passion for leveraging data to solve complex problems, led me to where I am today.

What do mentees usually come to you for?

Mentees often seek my guidance in either transitioning to data science or navigating the intricacies of data science. I offer structured mentorship, providing valuable insights into real-world applications. I aim to help mentees not only grasp the technical aspects but also understand the synergy between their skills and the ever-evolving dynamics of the business world. Through our interactions, I foster a mindset for innovation, encouraging creative problem-solving and a proactive approach to challenges. The mentorship journey is not just about knowledge transfer; it's a collaborative exploration of how technical expertise can be strategically applied in the dynamic landscape of data science.

What's been your favourite mentorship success story so far?

One of my most cherished mentorship success stories involved guiding a mentee through a particularly challenging machine learning project. Initially overwhelmed, they gained confidence and proficiency through our collaborative problem-solving sessions. Witnessing their journey from uncertainty to delivering a successful solution was immensely rewarding. Beyond the technical achievement, the experience highlighted the transformative power of mentorship in building not just skills but also resilience and self-assurance. This success story underscored the profound impact that personalized guidance and encouragement can have on an individual's professional growth.

What are you getting out of being a mentor?

Engaging in mentorship has proven to be a deeply enriching and reciprocal journey. This experience has significantly elevated my leadership skills, offering practical insights into guiding and motivating others. The mentorship role has been a confidence booster, challenging me to articulate complex concepts, provide constructive feedback, and navigate diverse perspectives with assurance. Moreover, the mentorship journey has gifted me a fresh perspective on problem-solving. Interacting with mentees, each with their unique challenges has broadened my approach to finding innovative solutions. It's a continuous learning process where I adapt strategies to meet varied needs, enhancing my problem-solving acumen in dynamic professional settings.