In the complex journey of personal and professional growth, mentorship often emerges as a pivotal influence. For Keerthana Janmugam, a participant in the fourth run of the Young Women’s Leadership Connection (YWLC) Pay It Forward Mentorship Programme, the experience was more than just guidance—it was a transformative relationship that bridged the gap between her academic life and the working world.
Mentorship is sometimes seen as a simple and personal gesture, but it also has a powerful butterfly effect in shaping and influencing the lives of both the mentor and mentee. In a world where women face diverse demands both personally and professionally, the importance of building each other up, supporting career development, and sharing knowledge and skills cannot be overstated.
As Keerthana reflects on her time in the mentorship program, she describes it as a two-way street, where it takes the effort of both mentor and mentee. Navigating the challenges of the circuit breaker period, which limited in-person interactions, Keerthana and her mentor, Casherine, maintained a strong connection through constant communication. The mentor-mentee pair kept in touch via WhatsApp, and if necessary, arranged for Zoom calls. This unwavering support proved to be invaluable as Keerthana transitioned from university to the working world. “Everyone needs a Casherine in their life to motivate them and push them forward when things don’t seem to fall right,” she says with gratitude. “She played a very big role in helping me make that transition.”
For Keerthana, the mentorship program not only provided her with professional guidance but also forged a deep, lasting bond. As she sums up her experience, “Aside from gaining a mentor, I have also gained a big sister and a lifelong friend.” Even after the program ended, Casherine continued to check on Keerthana, sending opportunities she believed would be useful for her personal growth.
Keerthana’s story is a powerful reminder of the enduring impact that mentorship can have, not only in shaping careers but also in building meaningful relationships that last a lifetime. As women continue to navigate the challenges of balancing personal and professional demands, mentorship remains a vital tool for growth, empowerment, and connection.
