The Importance of Mentorship: Supporting Young Women to Develop Leadership Potential

Women's Day annually provides an opportunity to recognize the achievements of women—those who have overcome barriers, started businesses, raised families, led organizations, and influenced the lives of others. However, for the author, Women's Day is not just a celebration but also a necessity to invest in future leaders.

This category includes young professionals starting their first job, graduates seeking opportunities, young entrepreneurs with dreams but without a mentor, as well as professionals who try their best but doubt their adequacy.

Over the years, the author has met many such young women: they are intelligent, hardworking, eager to learn, and full of potential. But they share a common trait—they do not believe in themselves. The author admits that he himself was once in such a state.

It is saddening to watch someone with immense abilities doubt themselves simply because no one ever told them, 'You can do it.' This is why the topic of mentorship is so important to the author. In his career, he had the honor of learning from people who shared knowledge, guided, encouraged, and trusted him with opportunities. He understands that these people gave him something more than professional advice—they gave him confidence.

This is one reason why the author is so convinced of the importance of mentorship among young women. He has seen how a young woman changes when someone believes in her. Initially, she is quiet, afraid of mistakes, worried that her questions will seem silly, and apologizes before sharing an idea, assuming everyone else knows more.

Then someone takes the time to listen to her, reminds her that it is okay not to know everything, and that every successful person started exactly where she is now.

Gradually, changes occur: she starts asking questions, voluntarily takes on new tasks, builds connections, learns that mistakes are part of learning, and stops comparing herself to others. Most importantly, she begins to believe in herself. The author notes that there is nothing more rewarding than watching this process.

When people ask why the author is so passionate about mentoring young women, the answer is simple: he has seen the impact it has. Sometimes young women do not need someone to solve their problems. They only need someone to listen, support, remind them that one tough day does not mean a wrong career choice, and help them see the strengths they do not yet notice in themselves.

The author emphasizes that he can teach technical skills and transfer knowledge, help understand the work, but he cannot teach attitude—that must come from within. However, confidence is different: it grows when someone believes in you, gives you a chance, and simply says, 'I know you can do it.'

One of the greatest joys in the author's career has been watching young women transform into confident professionals. Seeing a woman who was afraid to speak in meetings become someone who confidently shares her ideas, embraces new challenges, and realizes she is capable of much more than she imagined, reminds him of the value of mentorship.

The more young women he meets, the clearer he understands: the problem is not talent, but confidence. And sometimes one person who believes in you is enough. The author wonders what South Africa might look like if every experienced professional reached out to help at least one young woman. He reflects on how many future leaders could be nurtured, how many businesses could be created, how many families changed, and how many dreams realized, simply because someone took the time to guide, support, and believe in another person. It is not necessary to mentor a hundred young women; it is enough to start with one. If you help one young woman believe in herself, you have already made a contribution.

By investing in a young woman, we change not only one life but also families, workplaces, communities, and ultimately, our country. After all, every young woman deserves to be believed in until she learns to believe in herself. The author cannot think of a better investment.

Charlotte Makkeke once said: 'This work is not for yourselves. Kill this spirit of selfishness and do not live above your people, but live with them. If you can rise up, take someone with you.' These words remind us that no matter how far we advance in life, we should never forget to look back and help someone else. Each of us has the opportunity to support a young woman, guide her, and remind her of her capabilities. Sometimes this is enough to change a life.

In conclusion, the author repeats: 'If you can rise up, take someone with you.'