Marking an End, Embracing New Beginnings: YWLC Mentorship Programme 2024/2025 Mentor-Mentee Meet
- Young Women's Leadership Connection
- Jul 26
- 2 min read
The 2024/2025 YWLC Mentorship Programme concluded with a heartfelt Mentor-Mentee Meet event, serving as the Closing Ceremony for the nine-month journey. Held on 31 May 2025 at the Esplanade, the event brought together mentors and mentees to reflect on their shared experiences, celebrate the relationships built, and mark the close of a meaningful chapter in their leadership journey.
Mentor Appreciation Breakfast
To recognise the generosity and commitment of our mentors, YWLC hosted a Mentor Appreciation Breakfast at Canopy Restaurant, attended by Guest of Honour Minister Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations. Over thoughtful conversations, a hearty breakfast and inviting cups of coffee and tea, the morning provided a warm setting for meaningful exchange and reflection among mentors.
Beyond appreciation, the breakfast also sparked timely conversations on the skills and mindsets needed to navigate today’s fast-evolving industries. Mentors shared reflections from their own leadership journeys, as well as insights gained through their interactions with mentees, offering practical advice on staying resilient, adaptable and prepared for the future.
Mentorship Closing Ceremony
The day culminated in the formal Closing Ceremony at the Esplanade, where mentors and mentees came together to reflect on the mentorship journey. In her keynote address, Minister Grace Fu posed a powerful question to the cohort: What legacy do we want to leave for the next generation of women leaders?
In the evolving workforce landscape, the importance of mentorship in building a supportive ecosystem, one where women uplift each other through shared experiences, authentic conversations and consistent encouragement.
Mentorship plays a vital role in developing thoughtful and values-driven leadership. Through meaningful connections, women are able to learn from one another, rely on each other for support and step confidently into leadership roles.
Following the ceremony, attendees participated in a guided tour of the Esplanade, where mentors and mentees explored the venue and gained an appreciation for Singapore’s arts and cultural landscape.
Reflections from the Programme
Throughout the afternoon, many heartfelt stories were shared about how mentoring had shaped mentees’ personal and professional development. Whether in small ways or profound moments, these relationships left a lasting impact. The closing ceremony was a reminder that mentorship is not just about reaching a destination, but about walking the journey together, and continuing to support one another long after the programme ends.
Looking Ahead
While the 2024/2025 Mentorship Programme has come to a close, its impact will continue to grow through the conversations, connections and confidence it has sparked. The lessons gained and relationships built throughout the programme are meant to last beyond the nine months.
We hope that mentees of the programme carry these experiences forward as they navigate new chapters in their personal and professional journeys. In time, many will also find opportunities to support others, continuing the broader cycle of growth, leadership and community.
Acknowledgements:
Organising Committee: Caren Tso (YWLC 8th Exco Mentorship Director), Celine Liow, Farah Liyana Normal, Fernanda Wee, Jamie Low, Kelly Ong, Naomi Lizaso
