Mentorship Matters: Unlock Your Potential

In a recent interview, Anne Seibel, the French production designer known for her work on the Netflix series ‘Emily in Paris’ and films like ‘Midnight in Paris’, shared that her journey to success wasn’t straightforward. Initially aspiring to be a doctor, Seibel’s plans changed when she didn’t pass her medical exams. She later enrolled in a French architecture school, where she spent several years. One week, she was invited behind the scenes to watch a French musical shoot, which changed the course of her career. Inspired by the art director’s work on set, Seibel realised she could channel her architectural skills into a new realm, pursuing her dream of becoming a production designer. The rest, as they say, is history.

As a fresh graduate or young professional, you may feel uncertain about your future career and the next steps to take. It’s important to remember that feeling unsure as you embark on this next chapter of your life is perfectly normal. However, this uncertainty should not deter you from following the path that feels right now. Career paths are rarely linear, and often, you can only connect the dots in hindsight.

In this edition, we spotlight successful individuals whose career paths follow a similar narrative. Our cover story features David Chew, who began his journey as a broadcast journalist and eventually became the Deputy Director at the National Heritage Board. He shares how mentors have played a crucial role in shaping his career path. Today, he has become a mentor in turn, guiding many other professionals.

Likewise, Ratna Juita’s career journey has been largely serendipitous. Starting out as a shy student in school, she chose to confront her fears by joining a Toastmasters programme and embracing mindfulness practices. Overcoming challenges along the way, she boldly pursued her passion for learning and development, eventually founding The Mindgem, a mission-driven learning and development organisation. By sharing her personal story and insights on LinkedIn, Ratna has emerged as one of Singapore’s top 10 LinkedIn Voices—an amazing feat indeed! In our conversation on personal branding, she emphasises the value of authenticity and the idea that one need not wait for perfection to begin their journey.

As you ponder your own path, don’t be afraid to take steps that feel right or exciting, even if they seem small. This might mean taking up an internship, attending a class, or volunteering for a cause you’ve always felt strongly about. Do something that will pave the way for your passion to bloom from within. Remember that success is often a journey with unexpected turns and new opportunities. Embrace the journey and take each step with confidence—you never know where it might lead.

Joshua Joseph
Editor