At La Trobe University, the Career Ready Industry Mentoring Program continues to develop transformative connections between students and industry professionals, creating meaningful experiences that benefit both mentees and mentors alike.
This 12-week program is more than just a professional networking opportunity, it’s a platform for growth, guidance and shared success.
Mentors empower students – and themselves
For Jeremy, a Commercial Manager at Quality Logistics Services Australia, joining the program as a mentor was an intuitive next step. “I’ve always enjoyed the training part of my roles and helping those who are still learning,” he shared. Reflecting on his mentorship with business analytics student Parsa, Jeremy was struck by his mentee’s eagerness and determination. “His passion for his goals stands out to me. I genuinely wish I had looked for help earlier in my own career.”
Raj Mahato (FIEAust CPEng NER) – Medium Density and Retirement Living Manager at Winslow Constructors, echoed this sentiment. Having arrived in Australia as a skilled migrant, Raj’s experience of struggling to enter the workforce motivated him to guide others. “I didn’t get that help when I arrived in 2003,” he said. “Now, I share what worked – and what didn’t.”
The satisfaction of mentoring goes beyond the professional. “Seeing students grow in confidence and sharpen their focus is incredibly rewarding,” Jeremy added. “You remember what it was like to start out and you want to make that journey smoother for someone else.”
Students find confidence, clarity and connections
From the mentees’ perspective, the program is life changing. Parsa, who aimed to deepen his understanding of Australia’s supply chain landscape, described the program as “exceeding all expectations.” He gained insight into industry culture, negotiation practices, and the challenges faced by local exporters. “The mentoring experience boosted my confidence significantly. I now enter networking events with clarity and fresh ideas.”
Tshering, a postgraduate student with five years of experience as an architect in Bhutan, joined the program to better understand Australia’s construction industry. Her mentor Raj helped her bridge the gap between international experience and local expectations. “I was initially scared about not being familiar with local methodologies,” she admitted. “But my mentor reassured me that with a willingness to learn, I could adapt. That changed everything for me.” (Tshering and Raj are in the main image above.)
Even more impactful was a simple comment that unlocked a new sense of self belief. “Raj said I had strong communication skills – I didn’t think that was true. But hearing it gave me a huge confidence boost. It made me realise how communication can become one of my greatest strengths.”
Beyond career advice – a personal connection
Both mentees expressed deep gratitude for the mentorship experience – and the people who made it happen. Parsa shared heartfelt thanks for his mentor, Jeremy, whose expertise and humility left a lasting impression. “He’s the best mentor I could have asked for,” Parsa said. “He gave me a whole new outlook on the industry.”
Tshering, too, embraced the mentorship as more than a professional stepping stone. “This program helped me step out of my comfort zone. It’s shaped how I see myself, my goals and the opportunities ahead.”
Why join? Mutual growth, meaningful impact
Whether you’re a student stepping into a new industry or a seasoned professional looking to give back, the Career Ready Industry Mentoring Program offers a rare chance to grow – together.
To industry professionals: your experience could change a student’s life. To students: your curiosity and drive could inspire a mentor more than you realise.
As Tshering perfectly put it, “This program is what you make of it. Don’t be afraid to question, to express yourself and be authentic”.
Interested in joining the next mentoring round?
Visit mentoring.latrobe.edu.au and start your journey today.