A few months ago I was lucky enough to be chosen as one of the UK’s 16 most exciting young female entrepreneurs, and awarded a place on glossy magazine Marie Claire’s groundbreaking Inspire & Mentor programme. Brainchild of Marie Claire UK’s editor Trish Halpin, the programme pairs participants with some of Britain’s most successful and influential businesswomen, including interior designer Kelly Hoppen, founder of ethical clothing company People Tree Safia Minney, and fragrance guru Jo Malone.
It felt like all my Christmasses had come at once when I was paired up with an incredible mentor – Kanya King, founder of the MOBO Awards. Kanya has been helping me strategise for my new business, and has been an incredible voice of support and constructive challenge.
My mentor Kanya King (Image courtesy of MOBO)
I met with Kanya for another session in London yesterday, and it made me realise the importance and value of having a mentor who has been there, done it, and come through shining. They can help you see the bigger picture, share industry knowledge, steer you away from or around obstacles, inject fresh ideas, give you a totally different perspective, and also, perhaps most importantly, remind you that you really are making great progress.
I came away from yesterday’s session energised and inspired. Thank you Kanya, thank you Marie Claire.
Everyone needs a mentor – have you found yours yet?
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