As the 2025 Women in BIM (WIB) Mentor Scheme is about to open for applications, we spoke to one of the Mentor’s Mentors, Willow Williams, a member of the WIB global executive team and BIM lead at Colt Data Centre Services, about how she has been sharing her knowledge, experience and advice to improve the mentor/mentee process
In 2024, the WIB Mentor Scheme made 300 mentor/mentee matches, in multiple countries around the world. WIB has active members is 116 countries, with membership growing year on year.
The Mentor Scheme has been designed to offer support and guidance for all WIB members to learn and grow both professionally and personally for a period of six to nine months.
Applications open early 2025, closing in April. Matches are made in June and the mentoring sessions start from July 2025.
What does being a Mentor’s Mentor mean to you?
Being a Mentor’s Mentor is incredibly rewarding to me because it allows me to share my experiences and insights with other mentors, helping them grow and succeed. It’s about fostering a supportive and empowering environment where they can develop their skills and confidence.
I love seeing mentors flourish, as it creates a ripple effect – benefiting not only the mentors themselves but also their mentees and the broader community. Being in this role means I can guide others through challenges and celebrate their achievements, which is deeply fulfilling.
Additionally, it gives me the opportunity to learn from them, as mentoring is a two-way street. Every conversation brings new perspectives and ideas.
Ultimately, being a Mentor’s Mentor is about building a network of trust and collaboration, where everyone is committed to personal and professional growth.
What type of mentor style or approach do you take when supporting others?
My mentoring style is centred around authenticity and connection. I believe in creating a space where mentees feel genuinely listened to and understood. This involves active listening and empathetic engagement, ensuring they know their thoughts and feelings are valued.
I aim to guide rather than dictate, allowing mentees to explore their own paths and come to conclusions themselves. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment in their personal and professional journeys.
By being authentic, I build trust, which is crucial for meaningful conversations. I strive to be a sounding board, offering insights and perspectives while encouraging mentees to think critically and independently.
Ultimately, my goal is to support them in finding their unique solutions and strategies, reinforcing their confidence and capabilities. This approach not only benefits their growth but also enhances our mentoring relationship.
When you speak with someone who is a first-time mentor, what steps do you suggest they follow?
For first-time mentors, I suggest starting by reviewing Women in BIM Mentor’s Handbook, which provides valuable guidelines and best practices. Participating in mentor meetings is also crucial for exchanging ideas and learning from peers.
Engaging with a Mentor’s Mentor can offer additional insights and personalised advice. Establish clear goals with your mentee, focusing on what they hope to achieve. Practice active listening to fully understand their needs and challenges. Encourage open communication and create a safe space for them to express their thoughts. Offer guidance but allow your mentee to find their own solutions, fostering independence.
Reflect on each session and gather feedback to improve your mentoring skills. Utilise resources like mentoring podcasts or articles to gain fresh perspectives. Remember, mentorship is a journey of mutual growth, so remain open to learning from your mentee as well.
What would you say are the top three benefits of being part of the WIB Mentor Scheme?
Joining the WIB Mentor Scheme is a truly rewarding experience. First off, it’s a fantastic way to grow both personally and professionally. You get to learn new skills and gain fresh insights that can really push your career forward.
Plus, you’ll become part of a vibrant community of industry professionals. This network isn’t just about making connections; it’s about building relationships that can lead to exciting opportunities and collaborations.
Another great thing about the scheme is that it empowers women in the Building Information Modelling (BIM) field. It boosts confidence and helps create a more inclusive and supportive work environment.
In short, the WIB Mentor Scheme is all about growth, connection and making a positive impact. To find out more about the WIB Mentor Scheme, or apply to be a Mentor or Mentee, visit the Women in BIM website here.
