From stuck to soaring: How my mentor helped me get ahead

Annet Orori met her mentor during her final year of attachment while still in university. Aware that this opportunity could shape her future, she was determined to learn and make the most of the experience.

“I was placed under the guidance of a strict yet supportive mentor for three months—an experience that proved transformative. She was very firm but created opportunities for me to learn, even though I wasn’t doing exactly what I had studied,” Annet recalls.

Her mentor often took time to sit her down, offer feedback, and help her understand or correct her mistakes. Within just three months, Annet felt she had learned more than many of her peers. 

She gained confidence in her industrial knowledge and began sharpening her interpersonal skills.

“My mentor has played and is still playing a key role in building my confidence and developing my skills. I’ve gained access to useful resources, technical training, and learned how to work independently,” she says.

Annet also values the safe space her mentor provides. “I’m able to share my current challenges, aspirations, and even minor concerns that impact my confidence. Her support makes me feel empowered.”

Roy Ndombi, a career coach, emphasizes that mentorship is especially beneficial for career development. 

“Mentors offer valuable insights, advice, and guidance based on their own industry experience. They help you navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and avoid common pitfalls. They can also introduce you to their professional networks, opening doors for growth, job prospects, and collaboration,” he says.

Ndombi adds that mentors play a vital role in skill development by identifying key competencies, providing constructive feedback, and suggesting areas for improvement. 

Most importantly, he notes that a mentor who believes in you can help overcome self-doubt and impostor syndrome.

“A good mentor holds you accountable for your goals and keeps you motivated. They push you to stay focused and on track with your career development,” he says.

Ndombi says that identifying a mentor begins with having a clear sense of direction. First, you need to define your goals—whether you're looking to improve specific skills, advance your career, or gain a fresh perspective. 

"Once you know what you want, the next step is to identify the ideal mentor profile. Think about the kind of experience, knowledge, and personality traits that would best support your growth," he says 

From there, it's important to network and explore. Leverage your professional connections, attend industry events, join online communities, and ask colleagues or friends for recommendations. 

Ndombi advises not to rush the process. Rather than immediately asking someone to be your mentor, request a meeting for advice or guidance. Treat it as a learning opportunity. If the meeting goes well, maintain the connection and build the relationship gradually. 

"Mentorship should be a two-way street, so it's important to also offer support or insights where you can," he says 

And if finding a mentor independently proves difficult, Ndombi recommends exploring formal mentorship programs available through workplaces, professional organizations, or online platforms.

Mentorship can fast-track professional growth, widen your outlook, and significantly boost your chances of success in your chosen career path.