Insight into the value of mentorship through the SAP mentorship Programme
Meet Tshifiwa (a.k.a Tshif), an SAP leader who raised his hand for the opportunity to participate in the mentorship programme. We matched him with Kenyan learners and introduced him to them in the icebreaker sessions.
In today's rapidly evolving world, mentorship plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of our youth, particularly in the dynamic field of technology education (TechED). As technology continues transforming how we learn and teach, the need for guidance and support through mentorship has never been more critical.
For many young people, stepping into the world of work can be daunting. With countless tools, platforms, and innovations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Mentorship provides a supportive environment where mentees can learn and practice new skills. Experienced mentors can share their expertise, helping youth build confidence in their abilities. This confidence is crucial as they navigate their educational and career paths. The tech industry in particular thrives on innovation, and fresh perspectives are essential for driving change. Mentors can encourage young minds to think creatively and challenge the status quo. By nurturing innovative ideas, mentors not only help youth develop their potential but also contribute to the advancement of the industry itself. The key here is purposeful mentorship, which is intentional and geared towards the mentees career and life journey.
This symbiotic relationship opens doors to valuable networking opportunities. A mentor can introduce their mentee to critical players in the professional world, including entrepreneurs, educators, and investors. These connections can lead to internships, job opportunities, and collaborative projects. Building a strong network early on is vital for young individuals seeking to make a mark in the competitive landscape of education technology. Our holistic approach to learner development encompasses upskilling and addressing challenges which enable human potential through social capital. We do this by providing marginalised unemployed youth with upskilling opportunities within the digital skills arena to advance their career and secure high value jobs.
Mentorship often involves hands-on experiences, allowing mentees to engage with real-world projects. On August 1st 2024, Umuzi launched the SAP Educate-to-Employ (E2E) Mentorship programme. This programme invites leaders within SAP and the SAP ecosystem (partners and clients) to engage with learners in the E2E programme. These leaders provide learners with insights about their journeys, shared life and professional tips and serve as an example of what is possible for learners if they make the best use of this opportunity. Graca Mwavita, a 27-year-old Actuarial Science graduate from Kajiado County, Kenya, had this to say about her mentor, “Along the way, I have had the privilege of being mentored by Mr. Tshifiwa from SAP, whose guidance has been instrumental in motivating me toward my goal of working within SAP’s ecosystem.”
The mentorship programme serves learners in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Germany (which are run through Umuzi’s local enabling partner, Start Steps). Although learners are based in specific countries, their mentors may be based in various other countries around the world, giving them different perspectives. This global view allows young people to create opportunities outside of their origins which allow them to grow and dream big.
The value of mentorship in the technology industry cannot be overstated. It empowers the next generation, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and connections they need to succeed.
As we continue to witness the transformative impact of technology on education, fostering mentorship relationships will be crucial in shaping a brighter future for all learners. By investing in mentorship, we invest in the leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow.If you're a mentor, consider contacting a young person in your network. If you're a young person aspiring to enter the tech space, seek purposeful mentorship opportunities. Together, we can cultivate a thriving community that supports growth and innovation.
If you want to build a great mentorship programme check out this resource
If you want to be a better mentor check out this resource
If you want to be a better mentee, check out the below resource:
