Sep 302 min read

YWLC Mentorship Programme 2024/2025: Kickoff Workshop

On 17 August 2024, the YWLC Mentorship Programme launched its 9-month cycle with a Commencement Workshop, welcoming the 2024/2025 batch of mentees. In partnership with BCG X, we were privileged to hear from mentors about the value of mentorship and how to make the most of the journey ahead.

An insightful fireside chat featured Ms. Grace Kerrison, Head of LinkedIn Sales Solutions APAC at LinkedIn, and Ms. Sandra Lim, Managing Director at Verian. Moderated by Joping Chai, APAC Senior Staffing Specialist at BCG X and YWLC member, our mentors shared their advice on how to make the mentorship journey fruitful and rewarding. Their experiences and perspectives set the tone for an engaging and empowering session, providing invaluable insights for our new batch of mentees. We narrowed down to 5 key takeaways from the session below.

1. Personal Fulfillment is Key

Finding joy and purpose in your work is crucial. Whether as a manager or individual contributor, aligning your career with personal fulfillment is more important than chasing conventional success.

2. The Importance of Clear Goal Setting

Effective mentorship relies on well-defined goals. A clear sense of direction ensures that conversations and efforts are purposeful, leading to tangible growth over time.

3. Mentorship is Valuable at Every Stage

Mentorship isn’t just for early-career professionals. As careers progress, the complexities increase, and having a mentor to offer perspective and guidance becomes even more vital.

4. Build a Genuine Relationship with Your Mentor

A successful mentorship is built on trust and open communication. Being authentic and prepared helps create a strong bond, often evolving into a lasting professional friendship.

5. Pay It Forward

Mentorship is a two-way street. Mentees can express gratitude by sharing their experiences with others, creating a cycle of support that enriches the community.

The workshop ended with small group discussions using the GROW model (Goal, Reality, Options, Will), where mentees reflected on their goals and strategies for the next 9 months. We look forward to witnessing the transformative journeys of our mentees, with their mentors' support, as they achieve personal and professional growth.