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The power of mentorship

Thierry Mandarin 21 Nov 2024

For the past 12 months, I took part in KPMG’s Cross Company Allyship Programme (CCAP) where I met my mentor, Janice Whittington. Janice became a cornerstone of my experience in CCAP – from our very first meeting, her insights reshaped how I approached authenticity, reputation, and perception in my professional life. 

I had four main goals, entering the programme. 

  • As a Black professional, embracing and expressing my identity at work can be a nuanced experience. This includes wearing my natural hairstyles, such as cornrows and twists, even when they may challenge traditional ideas of professionalism. 
  • Navigating different working styles and communication preferences across stakeholders is essential. I wanted to adapt my approach to ensure alignment. 
  • Explore opportunities to expand my professional network, aiming to connect with others in my field and gain valuable insights and support. 
  • To seek mentorship and guidance that aligns with my academic and career interests. 

Authenticity and professionalism

 

Janice helped me see my identity at work in a new light. “Authenticity isn’t about rigid self-expression,” she said, “it’s about finding a balance between your identity and the environment.” Her advice gave me the confidence to embrace my heritage while staying in tune with my surroundings – a lesson that’s had a lasting impact on how I show up and thrive at work. 

 

Building a strong reputation

 

Her advice on reputation really stuck with me: “When you’re not in the room, the lightbulb needs to be lit up!” She stressed the value of building relationships with allies and sponsors who can advocate for me when I’m not there. These connections, she explained, help amplify my contributions and strengthen my professional reputation – especially important as a Black professional. 

 

Perception and personal branding

 

Finally, Janice encouraged me to actively engage with my interests and expertise by sharing insights on LinkedIn, building a professional brand, and seeking out meaningful networking opportunities. These strategies helped me connect with mentors, peers, and industry leaders, opening new doors and expanding my professional horizons. 

 

Milestones and achievements

 

The programme not only provided mentorship but also inspired me to take part in a series of professional and academic accomplishments, including: 

  • My MSc research presentation at Ffotogallery’s Alteration exhibition in Cardiff. Collaborating with a photographer and artist, my work explored Chagossian history and identity in the UK and Mauritius, exploring themes of citizenship and non-citizenship in contemporary contexts. 
  • Cross-functional experience at Leathwaite: collaborating across business units diversified the stakeholders I worked with and broadened my organizational understanding. 
  • Level 4 Sales Executive apprenticeship. With Janice and Calia Afeltra’s guidance, I have advanced my professional qualifications and am currently completing my apprenticeship with Leathwaite through BMS Progress.  
  • Black-focused networking events. Networking with leaders like Justin King led to conversations that enriched Leathwaite’s Inspire event series in honour of Black History Month. 
  • Mentee of the Year nomination: being nominated by Janice for CCAP’s Mentee of the Year was a testament to my growth during the programme. 

A defining journey

 

Participating in CCAP has been a defining experience in my career. The mentorship I received, particularly from Janice, has equipped me with tools to navigate the workplace with confidence and authenticity. This journey for me, has reaffirmed the value of allyship and mentorship in fostering both personal and professional growth. 

For anyone considering a similar opportunity, my advice is simple: take the leap. The connections you build, the lessons you learn, and the doors that open will undoubtedly shape your path in ways you never imagined. 

Thank you, KPMG

 

CCAP isn’t about individual success stories – it’s a game-changer. Recognized as one of the top 10 programmes for investing in ethnicity in 2024, it has brought together over 1,000 participants from the UK, Netherlands, and Canada, with 40 organizations involved and a 55% growth in size compared to last year. This programme is all about driving inclusivity, building meaningful connections, and shaping the leaders of tomorrow. One hundred percent worthwhile, thank you KPMG!  

Thierry Mandarin

Thierry is a Senior Associate in Leathwaite’s Global Marketing, Product and Sales practice and also our CEO, General Management and Board practice. He supports clients globally to source and retain senior leadership talent across the Financial Services, Technology, Telecoms, Media,…

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