National Mentoring Day

By Sharon Schweitzer

National Mentoring Day is the largest celebration of mentoring in the world, taking place each year on October 27th. Devised in 2014 and established as a national holiday in London, England, in 2016 by The Houses of Parliament, National Mentoring Day seeks to pair the thousands of mentoring programs nationwide with the thousands of people looking for guidance.

Chelsey Baker, a successful entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience mentoring business leaders, students, and entrepreneurs, founded National Mentoring Day. Baker’s background in marketing and PR, aligned with her passion for mentoring, led to the birth of this holiday. 

The organization works to celebrate, connect, educate and support mentors, mentees and mentoring initiatives giving them the recognition they deserve. 

Mentoring is a powerful influence that permeates every facet of our existence. It can manifest itself in various forms, from parents shepherding their children through their academic pursuits to grandparents bestowing wisdom upon younger generations. It’s even present in the workforce, with seasoned bosses generously sharing their expertise with novices. 

One of the best examples of mentoring comes from Socrates, the Ancient Greek philosopher. Known as the creator of modern logic, Socrates passed on his knowledge to his student, Plato, who became famous in life and death across the world. 

Mentoring can have a great effect on a person’s trajectory, career prospects, and happiness. Every year, the celebration of National Mentoring Day revolves around a specific theme. 

These themes highlight various aspects and dimensions of mentoring, making the day’s observance even more purposeful. While the exact theme may vary from year to year, the central idea remains consistent — the importance of mentorship in:

  • Nurturing talent
  • Building confidence
  • Facilitating personal and professional growth

While National Mentoring Day offers a focused opportunity to celebrate mentorship, it’s crucial to remember that true mentoring extends well beyond a single day.

The seeds of guidance sown over time bear the fruits of success, resilience, and personal growth.

 

Photo by youthemployment.org

Sharon Schweitzer JD, is a diversity and inclusion consultant, cross-cultural trainer, etiquette expert, and the founder of Access to Culture. In addition to her accreditation in intercultural management from the HOFSTEDE Centre, she is an attorney and mediator. Sharon served as a Chinese Ceremonial Dining Etiquette Specialist in the documentary series Confucius was a Foodie, on Nat Geo People. Her Amazon #1 Best Selling book in International Business,  Access to Asia: Your Multicultural Business Guide, won a coveted Kirkus Star, and was named to Kirkus Reviews’ Best Books. She’s a winner of numerous awards, including the British Airways International Trade Award at the Greater Austin Business Awards.

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