Navneet’s experience as a Mentoring Works volunteer
Name: Navneet Lehl
Company and role:
MUFG, Compliance Advisory
BIG Alliance programme: Mentoring Works
What motivated you to volunteer as a mentor via your company’s volunteering programme?
When I was in school there was a teacher who I really respected and looked up to. I’m not sure if the teacher knew this, but this person helped me to focus and work on achieving my goals. I feel it is important for young adults to have someone older in their lives to talk to and ask questions and who will help guide them.
How has your experience as a mentor been so far? What have you enjoyed?
This is my first year on the Mentoring Works Year 10 Programme and due to the external circumstances my interaction with the mentees has been predominantly over the phone. This, however, has not been an issue and the way the students have adapted has really been impressive. We spend a portion of our sessions discussing current events and it is always enjoyable hearing the students perspective on things.
What do you hope to have achieved by the end of it?
I hope the students will have taken on some of the advice and lessons I have learned into their lives and future.
What advice would you give to your colleagues who are thinking about volunteering?
Be prepared for an initial few weeks of awkwardness, one-word responses and absenteeism…but be patient! After this stage, the meetings become more enjoyable and engaging and also rewarding.
Do you work for a company or community organisation that would be interested in the Mentoring Works programme? If so, contact maria.tonchievici@thebigalliance.org.uk