While many people know the charity Women Leaders UK from its inspiring annual awards, how many realise that it also provides mentoring for women in the region all year round?
The mentoring service started back in 2020 when all the nominees for the Women Leader UK Awards were offered some one-off mentoring. This expanded and the winners were offered a full year’s mentoring free of charge, with an experienced leader. With funding from Milton Keynes City Council, the charity was able to expand the offer to women struggling to get back into the workplace after maternity leave, other breaks away, furlough or simply returning to work after Covid restrictions.
Five free sessions with an experienced mentor who could help them to navigate their own journeys at work were provided. This was not just about promotions, leadership or being self-employed, but all issues including work-life balance, imposter syndrome, lack of confidence and the ability to network.
Nikki Ross, Mentorship Programme Lead at Women Leaders UK said:
“Over the last couple of years, we have successfully mentored over 65 women from Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas. Our team of volunteer mentors give up their time willingly and can provide the best support and advice.
“It is easy to apply – if you are a woman and you live, work or play in the MK postcode then drop us a line with a short paragraph about yourself and what you are hoping to achieve and we will match you with a mentor.
“Alternatively, if you would like to give back and are willing to become a mentor – email the same address, express your wish to become a mentor and include a short bio about yourself and a photo and we can add you to the list and the website.”
Women Leaders UK recently worked with colleagues from Freeths LLP to co-host an afternoon networking event focusing on mentorship. One of the panellists described having a group of mentors as ‘like having your personal executive board who can hold you to account, encourage and inspire you’.
Lucy Bradban, Partner at Freeths said:
“Through effective mentorship, you can achieve the best of yourself.”
Dr Julie Mills, Chair of Women Leaders UK, said:
“No-one has all the answers, and the best and most successful people will surround themselves with advisors and supporters – you can do the same with Women Leaders UK.
“By supporting the annual awards, you ensure this mentoring provision can continue and grow, and of course, recognise the inspiring, talented women driving business growth and success – don’t forget to nominate now!”
Click here for more information about the awards, how to nominate and the categories. For more information about mentoring, email www.womenleadersuk.org
