Today is International Mentoring Day.  This day honours the impactful relationships between mentors and mentees, highlighting the significant role that mentoring can play in personal and professional development.  The former American politician, John C Crosby, once said that “mentoring is a brain to pick, an ear to listen, and a push in the right direction”. It is a privilege to discover the truth in every part of that quote as I reflect on the many benefits of being a mentee and a mentor. 

My first engagement with a mentor came shortly after my appointment as a DCS when you can imagine my imposter tendencies were acute!  Before our first meeting, I had worked myself into a state, unsure about my ability to connect or relate to the mentor, especially as my professional journey was very different to the mentor’s journey.  But those doubts were quickly dispelled a few minutes into our first conversation.  She had a great sense of humour, was willing to listen, understood, troubleshooted, and problem-solved with me and was honest about her own experiences as well as the challenges and opportunities that I faced.  Personally, I was also deeply moved by her openness and desire to help me and hold a space for me to have a mirror held up.  In that moment, and every moment thereafter, I felt safe and learnt what it meant to be a great mentor. 

One of the most significant benefits of mentoring can be the transfer of knowledge and skills. A mentor possesses insights and experiences that can be invaluable to a mentee, particularly when they are just starting their careers or are navigating a significant change. By sharing their journey, mentors can offer advice on overcoming challenges, understanding organisation intricacies, and recognising opportunities that might otherwise go unnoticed. This knowledge sharing can not only accelerate the learning curve for mentees but also enrich the mentor’s perspective, creating a mutually beneficial dynamic.

Not only am I continuing with my own journey as a mentee but feel proud that I am now able to give back as a mentor via ADCS.  The remarkable thing with mentoring is that both mentor and mentee engage in this dynamic exchange, they embark on a journey of growth, understanding, and empowerment together.  I believe that the really transformative power of mentoring lies in its ability to foster personal development, drive emotional resilience, and cultivate a richer understanding of human connection.

In the dynamic world of children's services, effective leadership is crucial for fostering growth and ensuring safety.  I believe one of the most valuable tools in a leader’s toolkit is thoughtful mentoring. This process not only enhances the professional growth of new leaders but also strengthens the fabric of the entire organisation, ultimately benefiting the children and families we serve. Done well, it not only empowers individuals but also fosters a nurturing culture that prioritises the wellbeing of both staff and the children they serve. As leaders, I think we should all commit to this essential practice, ensuring that we are not just leading but also cultivating a legacy of compassionate and effective leadership for the next generation.