Why Leading the Movement?
Jess described her mentoring experience as "high-quality, informative, educational and genuinely positive". She built instant trust with her mentor allowing for openness and growth. Her mentor was genuinely invested and gave her honest guidance to help her evolve personally and professionally.
"My increased confidence, proactivity and vision have allowed me to champion initiatives that create tangible opportunities and lasting impacts for women and girls."
"My journey is a reflection of a powerful shift from quiet confidence to visible leadership - driving greater impact, collaboration and advocacy for underrepresented groups in sport."
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Mentoring experience
Jess' relationship with her mentor was easy and natural, founded on mutual respect and flexibility. Jess learned that mentoring success was driven by personal commitment, "what you put in, you get out", and used this mentality to develop her own reflection system, improving accountability and self-directed growth.
- Jess identified a 60% increase in professional visibility.
- She found mentoring enhanced her advocacy ability and made her more proactive in shaping inclusion initiatives.
- Jess noted improved performance and results with stronger communication skills and therefore partnership outcomes in her work.
Jess' mentor was honest, shared lived experiences and was authentic in their approach. Their constructive and straightforward feedback helped Jess overcome self-doubt and step outside of her comfort zone. As a result, Jess felt greater confidence and an openness to new challenges.
Impacts and reflections
Jess found great value in the Leading the Movement mentoring offer, she noted the benefits as:
- A shift in mindset on confidence and self-advocacy. Jess now speaks up more in meetings and public forums.
- A boost in personal and organisational visibility through representation in local news and at regional panels.
- A reconnection with her core purpose - advocating for inclusion and equality in sport.
For Jess, the programme was "absolutely worthwhile", it was flexible, tailored and undoubtedly developmental. It strengthened her leadership mindset and gave her more confidence to take initiative. The programme supported the development of her long-term self-belief, this translated directly into higher professional effectiveness.
For others looking to get involved in the mentoring Jess recommends you:
- Pre-schedule mentoring sessions to maintain momentum.
- Add peer networking or mentee exchange sessions for shared learning.
- Lean into the matching process, it combines diversity of experience with alignment of purpose.
Unlock your potential with the power of mentoring
The Leading the Movement programme connects you with experienced mentors who listen, challenge and inspire. Take the steps Jess did - lean boldly and make your impact visible. Register today.
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