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Successful mentoring delivers results

Sheffield Hallam University’s (SHU) Mentoring Success Scheme was recognised at an event last week, with future Henry Boot employee Ester Yambao receiving the coveted Mentee of the Year Award.

Ester was matched with our Senior Bid Writer Kate Ribey through the SHU Career Mentoring Scheme, which pairs student mentees with professionals who mentor and help them to make decisions about their career. She wanted help to improve her CV and interview techniques, as well as securing valued contacts and experiences.

Through a site visit to The Glass Works in Barnsley and a day work-shadowing at our Dronfield Head Office, Ester’s confidence significantly improved, and her experiences expanded, cementing her interest in a construction career. When the opportunity arose, Ester applied for and secured a paid placement year at our sister company Henry Boot Developments, the perfect end to a productive mentoring relationship.

I couldn’t even begin to say how fantastic the mentorship has been. You have helped me start my career and inspired me to be the best that I can be.

Ester Yambao, Student, Sheffield Hallam University

Ester was matched with Kate through the SHU Career Mentoring Scheme
Ester was matched with Kate through the SHU Career Mentoring Scheme
Kate receiving her mentoring certificate
Kate receiving her mentoring certificate

Career Mentoring is a way for SHU alumni to give something back to current students, with students benefitting from increased wellbeing and confidence, better networks and opportunities. The scheme has almost doubled in size from 2017-18 and is always looking for additional mentors from a range of backgrounds. Mentors need to commit to four interactions over six months, agreed locally with the mentee.

When I was approached to be a mentor I wondered what I could offer, and whether it was right for me. I have been supported by Henry Boot every step of the way and am pleased to say that mentoring was a fantastic experience. I will definitely be signing up for next year’s programme.

Kate Ribey, Senior Bid Writer, Henry Boot Construction

For more information on the mentoring scheme, contact careermentoring@shu.ac.uk or visit www.shu.ac.uk/alumni/careers-support/mentoring.