Why mentoring is important to me

Mentoring is an essential part of my life, woven into both my professional career and personal purpose and meaning. 

It’s more than just sharing knowledge or offering guidance — it’s a process that allows me to connect, uplift, and witness the transformation of individuals striving to achieve their goals. Over the years, I’ve discovered that mentoring gives as much to me as it does to those I mentor, if not more. It’s a source of deep fulfilment, a way to leave a positive impact on others, and a chance to continuously grow myself.

At its core, mentoring is about connection. I’ve always believed that genuine relationships are what drive meaningful growth — both personally and professionally. In every mentoring relationship I’ve had, I’ve sought to create a space of trust and open communication. 

Positive impact

It’s amazing how, when someone feels seen and heard, they start to unlock potential they didn’t even realise they had. Being able to listen without judgement and offer support during someone’s critical moments is a privilege. I enjoy helping them see possibilities they may have overlooked or been too hesitant to pursue.

One of the reasons I love mentoring is that it allows me to foster other people’s growth. Watching someone take steps forward — whether that’s a small achievement or a breakthrough moment — makes it all worthwhile. There’s nothing quite like seeing someone’s face light up when they accomplish something they didn’t think they could. Whether it’s an athlete I coach hitting a milestone on the court or a colleague successfully navigating a complex challenge at work, knowing I’ve contributed to their progress is incredibly rewarding. 

I cherish these moments because they remind me that growth is rarely linear, and being part of that journey reinforces my belief in resilience and perseverance.

In my time leading and mentoring teams, I’ve come to realise that mentoring isn’t just about technical skills or professional development — it’s about nurturing confidence. Often, people doubt their abilities, especially when they are at the start of a new challenge or career path. I’ve found that helping someone believe in themselves is one of the most valuable gifts a mentor can offer. Sometimes all it takes is reminding them of their strengths, offering a bit of encouragement, or sharing stories of my own stumbles along the way to show them that setbacks are part of the process.

Nurturing confidence

Mentoring has also given me a way to pay forward the guidance I’ve received throughout my own journey. I’ve been fortunate to have had incredible mentors in my life — people who challenged me, believed in me, and guided me when I needed direction. They weren’t always the ones with the answers, but they asked the right questions. They pointed me toward opportunities I hadn’t considered, and gave me the confidence to take risks. Being on the receiving end of that support shaped who I am, and it’s why I do the same for others.

Paying it forward

I especially love mentoring basketball, particularly with the Sydney Comets Women’s Youth League and the NBL1 team. Working with young athletes is an experience that continually reminds me of the value of discipline, teamwork, and mental toughness. Sports are an incredible arena for life lessons, and being able to mentor players — many of whom aspire to play professionally — is an honour. There’s something extraordinary about seeing them apply the skills we work on, not just in the game but in life.

What stands out to me in mentoring young athletes is how critical it is to shape not just their technical abilities but mindset. They are dealing with the pressure of balancing their ambitions with other areas of life — school, relationships, or the mental weight of expectations. Mentoring gives me the opportunity to be more than a coach. It allows me to be a guide, a motivator, and sometimes a sounding board for the challenges they face off the court. It’s fulfilling to see them not just become better athletes but more confident and self-aware individuals.

I’ve also discovered that mentoring is a two-way street. Every person I mentor teaches me something new, often in ways I don’t expect. Whether it’s fresh perspectives from younger mentees or the reminder to embrace curiosity, these relationships keep me growing. They push me to stay humble, listen actively, and question my own assumptions. In many ways, mentoring keeps me energised and sharp, ensuring that I never stop learning.

Preparing for life’s challenges

A part of what draws me to mentoring is the long-term impact it can have. I’ve always believed that the ripple effect of a positive influence can extend far beyond the initial interaction. When you mentor someone, you’re not just helping them achieve their goals—you’re empowering them to mentor others down the line. This idea of creating a legacy through mentorship is something I find incredibly motivating. It’s not about being remembered or credited; it’s about knowing that the time and effort invested in one person can ultimately inspire many more.

Long-term impact

There’s also a sense of joy that comes from being part of someone’s success story, no matter how big or small. Celebrating victories with those I’ve mentored — whether that’s landing a dream job, winning a tough game, or overcoming personal challenges — reminds me of why I do this. It’s a feeling that words can’t quite capture, but it’s one of the most rewarding experiences I know. I don’t see mentoring as a transactional exchange of knowledge; it’s an ongoing relationship where both sides grow and evolve.

Lastly, mentoring aligns with my core belief that everyone has untapped potential waiting to be unleashed. Sometimes, all someone needs is the right kind of support at the right time. I love the idea that, through mentoring, I can play a small role in helping people discover what they’re capable of. It’s not about giving them the answers but guiding them toward finding those answers for themselves. Seeing that transformation happen over time is an experience that keeps me coming back to mentoring, again and again.

In the end, mentoring is deeply personal to me. It’s about more than passing down knowledge or giving advice—it’s about investing in people, building trust, and believing in their potential. Every mentoring relationship is different, and each one brings its own challenges and rewards. But whether it’s on the basketball court, in the workplace, or simply offering guidance in someone’s life, mentoring continues to be one of the most meaningful and fulfilling parts of my journey. It gives me purpose, keeps me connected to others, and reminds me that the greatest achievements are often those we help others realise.

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