LEADERSHIP

August 31, 2024

Leadership

Did you know?

The well-renowned writers-JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis met regularly as part of a literary group in Oxford. This informal gathering of like-minded individuals provided a fertile ground for intellectual exchange and mutual support. 

It was in this environment that Lewis and Tolkien honed their craft, sharing ideas, critiques, and encouragement with each other which led to the former’s writing of the Chronicles of Narnia. It’s a beloved fantasy series and living proof that mentorship can often be found in unexpected places, like among friends who share a common passion.

The series also offers a rich tale of mentorship that shapes the lives of its young protagonists. From the wise and benevolent Aslan to the enigmatic Mr. Tumnus, the series showcases the profound impact a mentor can have on a child's journey of self-discovery and growth.

Aslan: The Ultimate Mentor

Aslan, the lion who is both king of Narnia and the Son of God, serves as the ultimate mentor figure. His love, guidance, and courage inspire the Pevensie children to overcome their fears and embrace their destinies. Aslan's mentorship is characterized by his ability to see the potential within each individual and provide them with the tools they need to reach their full potential.

Mr. Tumnus: A Protector and Guide

Mr. Tumnus, the faun who befriends Lucy Pevensie, is another significant mentor in the series. Despite his initial fear and uncertainty, Mr. Tumnus ultimately chooses to protect Lucy and guide her through the unfamiliar world of Narnia. His mentorship highlights the importance of empathy, loyalty, and the courage to do what is right, even when it is difficult.

The Transformative Power of Mentorship

The Chronicles of Narnia emphasize the transformative power of mentorship, demonstrating how a caring and supportive figure can help a child navigate the challenges of life and discover their true selves. Through the guidance of Aslan, Mr. Tumnus, and other mentor figures, the Pevensie children learn valuable lessons about courage, friendship, and the importance of following one's heart.

Connecting to &Leap

Just as the Pevensie children found guidance and support in the world of Narnia, &Leap offers individuals the opportunity to connect with successful global leaders who can serve as mentors. By providing access to a diverse network of experienced professionals, the platform supports individuals to gain valuable insights, develop new skills, and achieve their goals. 

The platform's focus on personalized mentorship and community building mirrors the supportive and nurturing environment found in the Chronicles of Narnia, making it a valuable resource for those seeking guidance and inspiration.

August 31, 2024

Leadership

The inspiring tale of Indian Industrialist Srikanth Bolla, as depicted in the film Srikanth, is a testament to the transformative power of mentorship. Born visually impaired into a tribal family, Srikanth's journey to becoming an industrialist is a remarkable feat that wouldn't have been possible without the guidance and support of his mentors.

The Impact of Mentorship on Society

The story of Srikanth Bolla highlights the importance of mentorship in creating a more inclusive and equitable society. By providing guidance and support to individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, mentors can help level the playing field and unlock the potential of those who might otherwise be overlooked.

The Role of Mentorship 

Mentors play a crucial role in shaping individuals' lives, providing them with the necessary tools, knowledge, and encouragement to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Mentors are instrumental in:

• Providing guidance and direction: Mentors help navigate the complexities of education and the corporate world, offering advice on career paths and strategies.
• Building confidence and self-belief: By believing in your potential, mentors help you develop a strong sense of self-worth and the courage to pursue your dreams.
• Offering practical support: Mentors provide resources, connections, and opportunities that would have been inaccessible otherwise.

The Role of &Leap in Mentorship

&Leap can play a vital role in connecting individuals with mentors who can provide the guidance and support they need to succeed. By offering affordable and direct access to a diverse network of successful leaders, &Leap can help individuals from all walks of life achieve their goals and make a positive impact on the world.

In a world that often feels disconnected and competitive, &Leap's approach offers a refreshing perspective. By creating a supportive community and fostering social learning, the platform encourages collaboration, empathy, and a shared commitment to making a positive difference. Just as Srikanth Bolla's story inspires countless individuals, &Leap's Catalysts have the potential to ignite passion, spark creativity, and catalyze transformative change.

August 06, 2024

Leadership

Gina Low's story might surprise you. Graduating with a degree in aerospace engineering, she dreamt of rockets and space exploration. Landing a coveted role in the Air Force seemed like the perfect first step. But after a few months, reality set in – it wasn't what she envisioned. So, she took a leap of faith and landed a contract job at Barclays Bank in the back office. Thankfully, that contract turned permanent, opening a new chapter in her career journey.

Finding My Niche: From Back Office to Client Service

The world of finance wasn't initially part of the plan, but she thrived in the structured environment. After three years, she craved a more client-facing role. The idea of building relationships and using her skills to directly help people appealed to her. Luckily, an internal transfer opportunity arose, and she found herself in the front office, managing client relationships. Despite the long hours, she discovered a passion for client service that surprised even herself.

Facing Challenges and Stepping Up

However, the path wasn't always smooth sailing. In 2016, her world turned upside down when a colleague and dear friend was diagnosed with cancer. While he focused on his health, the responsibility of managing his clients fell on her. The workload intensified, coinciding with a bank acquisition that brought new systems and procedures. It felt like a never-ending uphill battle, with late nights becoming the norm.

Stepping Outside My Comfort Zone: People Management and Client Relationships

As things stabilized, she found herself leading a team of associates. This, for an introvert like her, was a whole new challenge. People management pushed her outside her comfort zone. Difficult conversations, sometimes leading to confrontations, tested her communication skills. Similarly, managing client relationships initially felt draining, leaving her depleted after every meeting.

Growth and the Power of Preparation

But challenges have a way of forcing growth. The more she prepared for meetings and the deeper her connections became with clients and her team, the more comfortable she felt. She learned to leverage her strengths and navigate her introverted nature to become a successful people manager and client service professional.

From Client Service to &Leap: Empowering Others

Today, that journey has led her to a new and exciting venture – co-founding a mentorship platform called &Leap. Witnessing the challenges faced by both young professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs inspired her to create a space for meaningful connections. &Leap goes beyond traditional models, creating organic connections between people from all walks of life, from Gen Z influencers to C-suite leaders. Their focus is on giving back and enabling individuals to achieve their goals.

Her career path may not have been a straight line, but the unexpected turns led her to discover her passion for helping others. Now, with &Leap, she hopes to empower the next generation by providing a platform for mentorship and connection – a space where anyone can find the guidance and support they need to thrive.

July 20, 2024

Leadership

In the realm where data meets technology, one individual stands out as a visionary driven by a profound passion for innovation and a relentless pursuit of knowledge - Bhargava Krishna Sreepathi. Yet, behind his remarkable achievements, lies a story of resilience and determination, as he overcame various challenges to become an influential expert and mentor in his field.

From Humble Roots to Breaking Barriers

Hailing from a lower-middle-class background and native to Andhra Pradesh, Bhargava faced numerous obstacles from an early age. His modest upbringing instilled in him a deep appreciation for the value of knowledge. In a sea of 600,000 contenders, Bhargava's unwavering determination allowed him to crack the fiercely competitive IIT JEE exam, securing one of the coveted 4000 seats. Despite this achievement, his journey was not without its fair share of challenges.

A Journey Marred by Discrimination

During his higher education, Bhargava also had to confront caste discrimination, which added another layer of adversity to his path. Navigating this difficult terrain, he found solace and inspiration in his discipline and hard work. However, one can't help but wonder how his journey might have been different had he received the reassurance and guidance from mentors at various stages of his life. Afterall, as a child, he experienced instances where his friend's grandmother seemed hesitant to welcome him into their home by merely looking at him.

The Role of an Inspiring Mentor

Recognizing the impact of mentorship, Bhargava's journey is deeply rooted in the belief that mentors can shape and transform individual trajectories. As a young student, a teacher played a pivotal role, acting as a mentor and encouraging him to read books that fostered his intellectual growth. Bhargava attributes some of his successes to this invaluable guidance, leaving a lasting impression on his aspirations and ambitions.

A Passion for Teaching and Mentorship

In addition to his technical prowess, Bhargava's passion for teaching and mentoring is evident in his commitment to knowledge-sharing and educational empowerment. Whether imparting wisdom in formal educational settings, facilitating workshops, or engaging in informal knowledge-sharing sessions, Bhargava's dedication to nurturing talent and fostering growth is unwavering. 

A Leader in Collaborative Innovation

Embracing the ethos of continuous upskilling, Bhargava remains at the forefront of his domain by immersing himself in the latest trends, technologies, and methodologies. His dedication to lifelong learning not only ensures that his expertise remains cutting-edge but also cements his status as a trailblazer in the ever-evolving landscape of Data Science and AI.

&Leap: A Catalyst for Growth and Support

As a catalyst on the mentorship platform &Leap, Bhargava offers a trusted space for emerging leaders to navigate the complexities of transitioning into managerial roles, providing invaluable advice, emotional support, and a platform for the exchange of ideas and experiences. His belief in the transformative power of mentorship underscores his faith in paying it forward. As Bhargava continues to invest in the growth of others, his story serves as motivation for aspiring professionals, showing them that with determination, resilience, and the support of mentors, anything is possible.

June 18, 2024

Leadership

Jia Rajput embodies the essence of a modern entrepreneur, whose journey started with a passion that transformed into a thriving professional endeavour. As the Founder and Chief Curator of House of Rajput, a multi-label jewellery brand launched in 2019, Jia has intricately intertwined the cultural origins of her Chinese ethnicity and her deep connection with India. 

From Passion to Profession

Based out of Singapore, House of Rajput stands as a testament to her dedication to curating contemporary, one-of-a-kind jewellery sourced from independent designers worldwide, all while keeping her South Asian family ties close to heart.

Jia's compelling journey is fuelled by her desire to celebrate and amplify the talents of emerging designers and artisans, channeling their skills and creativity through statement pieces. Her brand isn't just about fashion; it's a platform meant to empower and uplift women and individuals from all walks of life. 

Recognition and Acclaim

This ethos has garnered well-deserved recognition, with House of Rajput being featured in Expat Living and earning the accolade of Top 5 Affordable Jewelry Brands in Singapore by NYLON Singapore.

Notable milestones earmark her journey, including being honoured by the Spirit of Enterprise for the start-up award category and securing coverage in esteemed magazines such as Her World, Nylon Singapore, Expat Living Singapore, and Prestige Hong Kong. Additionally, being selected by Boutique Fairs, Singapore's largest curated shopping event, further bolstered the recognition of House of Rajput as a global jewellery brand.

Breaking Boundaries

Beyond her achievements in the jewellery industry, Jia's passion for entrepreneurship extends to her latest venture, &Leap – an intelligent knowledge-sharing platform that connects individuals with global leaders. This initiative stands as a testament to her commitment to providing accessibility to some of the brightest minds of our generation, underscoring her dedication to serving beyond the realms of her entrepreneurial endeavours.

Jia's formative years in Industrial Design and her prior experience in the banking industry have coalesced into the strong foundation upon which she has built her entrepreneurial success. Her journey is of perseverance, especially as she navigated the challenges of transitioning careers in her mid-30s, a feat that she describes as empowering.

Resilience in the Face of Challenges

Throughout her professional journey, Jia's resilience has seen her navigate the challenges of starting a business in an unfamiliar field, culminating in the successful establishment of the House of Rajput. From initial struggles in building their website to pivoting marketing strategies in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jia's ability to adapt and overcome challenges stands as a testament to her tenacity.

Advancing Women's Perspective

In her reflections on the current state of women's representation in the workforce and leadership roles in the Asian business landscape, Jia's perspective is one of encouragement and inspiration. She champions the success of women leaders and entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of support systems and government initiatives to nurture the growth of women in leadership positions.

Jia Rajput's journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of passion, dedication, and resilience. From the roots of her Chinese heritage to the vibrancy of Indian culture, her entrepreneurial spirit exemplifies the beauty of multiculturalism. Her endeavors showcase how a deep-seated passion can create a platform that celebrates inclusivity. Jia has transformed her presence into a symbol of empowerment, amplifying the limitless potential of a driven entrepreneur and the diverse voices she represents.

March 19, 2024

Leadership

&Leap ‘Catalyzing Impact Series 1 & 2’ sessions, led by Coach Elizabeth Taylor, dove deep into the crucial role of mentorship in building essential skills like trust, empathy, and active listening. 

These interactive sessions offered valuable insights for both mentors and mentees, leaving attendees empowered to cultivate stronger connections and achieve impactful goals.

Here are the key takeaways that resonated with participants:

> Mentorship as a Catalyst: The session highlighted how effective mentorship can act as a powerful catalyst, accelerating personal and professional growth. By providing guidance, support, and encouragement, mentors can empower individuals to reach their full potential.

> Mentorship vs. Coaching: While both mentors and coaches provide guidance and support, the key difference lies in their approach and goals. Mentors typically draw on their own experiences and wisdom to offer long-term support and guidance, while coaches focus on helping individuals develop specific skills and achieve targeted goals within a defined timeframe. The session likely explored the specific benefits and ideal scenarios for each role.

> Building Trust: The Cornerstone: Trust was identified as the bedrock of successful mentoring relationships. Coach Taylor emphasized the importance of open communication, authenticity, and mutual respect in fostering trust and creating a safe space for learning and development.

> Empathy: Understanding Others' Perspectives: The session explored the power of empathy in building strong connections. By actively listening and understanding the unique experiences and challenges faced by others, mentors can provide more relevant and impactful support.

> Active Listening: The Art of Truly Hearing: The importance of active listening, which goes beyond simply hearing words, was underscored. By paying close attention, asking clarifying questions, and demonstrating genuine interest, mentors can create a deeper level of understanding and connection.

Beyond the Takeaways

The interactive nature of the sessions, featuring activities and discussions, allowed participants to engage with the concepts in a meaningful way. This not only solidified the key takeaways but also fostered a sense of community among attendees.

Looking Ahead

Building on the success of this session, AndLeap is excited to announce two more sessions in the series:

• March 21: Mentoring Framework and Goal Setting
• April 16: Developing Mentoring Skills

These sessions are open to everyone, offering an opportunity to learn, connect, and grow alongside fellow individuals passionate about personal and professional development.

Don't miss out!

Secure your spot for these upcoming sessions by getting in touch with us on Instagram. Together, let's continue to catalyze positive impact through the power of mentorship and effective communication.

March 19, 2024

Leadership

Mentorship. The word conjures images of seasoned sages guiding wide-eyed apprentices, wisdom crackling like lightning between generations. But in the messy reality of professional development, mentorship often feels more like navigating a labyrinth of expectations and unspoken rules. To truly understand the power of mentorship, we need to shed the myths that cloud its potential.

Myth #1: Mentors are always seasoned gurus 

Reality: Mentorship is a journey, not a destination. While experience is valuable, it's not the sole prerequisite. A budding entrepreneur can find guidance in a seasoned marketer, a writer in a peer struggling with the same blank page blues. The key is finding someone who has walked a similar path and can offer relevant insights, regardless of their age or title.

Myth #2: Finding a mentor is like winning the lottery

Reality: Mentorship is not a passive pursuit. Be proactive! Network, attend industry events, and connect with people online. Don't be afraid to reach out to individuals whose work you admire. Most people are flattered to be approached and happy to share their knowledge. Remember, the power dynamic is not one-sided. You bring your unique perspective and questions to the table.

Myth #3: Mentorship is a one-way street

Reality: Think of mentorship as a symbiotic relationship, a two-way exchange of knowledge and support. Be open to learning from your mentor, but also offer your own skills and perspectives. Share your challenges, ask questions, and actively engage in the dialogue. Remember, you're not just absorbing information; you're contributing to your mentor's growth as well.

Myth #4: Mentorship is about finding the perfect match

Reality: The ideal mentor is not a mythical unicorn. There's no one-size-fits-all approach. You might have multiple mentors, each offering different strengths and perspectives. Don't get hung up on finding the ‘perfect’ person. Focus on building genuine connections with people who can support your growth, even if they don't tick all your boxes.

Myth #5: Mentorship is a formal, structured process 

Reality: Mentorship can be as structured or as casual as you want. Regular coffee chats, informal lunches, or even email exchanges can be incredibly valuable. The key is to find a format that works for both you and your mentor, one that allows for open communication and honest feedback.

At &Leap, we believe in the transformative power of guidance. That's why we go beyond traditional mentorship and introduce ‘Catalysts’, a unique approach to supporting your personal and professional development.

Unlike traditional mentors who may offer more passive guidance, Catalysts actively nudge you in the right direction. They act as spark plugs, igniting significant change within you and propelling you toward your goals.

At &Leap, we understand that true growth comes from empowering individuals, and our Catalysts are here to do just that. They'll be your trusted guides, offering support and expert advice as you navigate your career and personal aspirations.

Here's where the &Leap Catalysts will elevate your mentorship experience:

Ready to ditch the mentorship myths and learn the real power of learning? 

Here's where &Leap will elevate your mentorship experience:                                    

Access a global pool of mentors: Break free from local constraints and connect with the best minds, no matter where they are.

• Real-time knowledge exchange: Engage in interactive conversations, ask insightful questions, and receive immediate feedback.
• Build a lasting network: Connect with like-minded individuals, expand your professional circle, and create lasting relationships.

 Don't wait! Take the leap with &Leap, where we aim to debunk the myths of mentorship and make finding a Catalyst affordable and accessible. Sign up now, and expand your network.