PIF Mentorship Programme’s “Serendipity” Workshop at EY
- Young Women's Leadership Connection
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
The Pay-It-Forward (PIF) Mentorship Programme marked an exciting milestone with its first in-person workshop since the Opening Ceremony, held at the Ernst & Young (EY) office. Mentors and mentees came together, eager to engage in a unique scenario-based learning experience designed to elevate their careers and aspirations.
A Morning of Growth and Connection
The highlight of the workshop was Serendipity, an epic, choose-your-own-adventure card game facilitated by learning game design studio Hakopi. This immersive game encouraged participants to unlock opportunities, build meaningful connections, and take well-timed risks - key ingredients for reaching new professional heights.
Empowering Careers Through Play
Throughout the morning, mentors and mentees navigated thought-provoking scenarios that mirrored real-life career challenges. Serendipity’s engaging format empowered participants to:
Strategically navigate change and uncertainty, discovering unique career paths.
Build excellence and gain visibility to move ahead in their fields.
Network smarter by understanding how meaningful interactions drive long-term success.
Identify and overcome limiting beliefs to achieve better outcomes.
Harness serendipity by leveraging chance encounters and making ‘good luck’ happen.
Insights and Reflections from Participants
The workshop sparked many meaningful conversations and personal reflections. Participants shared several key takeaways:
Maximising Excellence and Exposure: Success comes from balancing the pursuit of excellence with gaining exposure. It’s important to continuously learn new skills while also meeting new people and expanding your network.
Engaging Positively with Change: Obstacles and changes are inevitable. As one participant reflected, “When a door is closed and I want to get in, I should find another entrance.” Instead of forcing the door open or giving up, it’s about acknowledging the setback and exploring alternative opportunities.
Creating Your Own Opportunities: Don’t just wait for opportunities; look for them, or better yet, create them. “Don’t be afraid to ask,” was a recurring theme, reminding everyone that being proactive is key.
Self-Reflection Questions:
Am I maximising both excellence and exposure?
Am I opening doors and greeting opportunities?
Am I comfortable asking for opportunities?
Am I saying yes to opportunities that come my way?
Mentors also offered valuable perspectives; One emphasised the importance of resilience - recognising that the journey can be challenging, but pushing yourself is crucial. Another mentor highlighted that the journey itself is more important than the destination, and that everything learned along the way is truly rewarding.
Expert Facilitation by Hakopi
The session was led by Hakopi, a boutique learning game design studio known for creating immersive and engaging learning experiences. Under the guidance of behavioural psychologist and award-winning game designer Ritika Datta, participants were encouraged to reflect, strategise, and collaborate in a safe and playful environment. Ritika’s expertise ensured that every moment was not only educational but also inspiring and actionable.
A Lasting Impact
As the workshop concluded, mentors and mentees left with fresh perspectives, practical strategies, and a renewed sense of agency over their professional journeys. The morning at EY was more than just a game; it was a catalyst for meaningful conversations, self-reflection, and lasting growth.
The PIF Mentorship Programme continues to empower its community to take control of their careers. With initiatives like Serendipity, participants are reminded that the power to shape their future is in their hands - to play, connect, and level up together.
The day culminated in an intimate reflection session where mentor-mentee pairs gathered, guided by their PIF programme workbooks. These small group discussions created a perfect setting for pairs to catch up, reflect on the learning and progress through the mentorship programme.
Acknowledgements:
PIF Organising Committee: Xiu-Ling Tay (YWLC 8th EXCO Social Impact Director), Joelene Wo, Christabel Leong, Sarah Seet, Charmaine Ng, Krithika Balasubramaniam, Chua Khai Shing, Sara Koruthu, Maria Elva Lanovia
