Through our ‘Break the Wall’ mentorship programme with our social mobility partner, Creative Mentor Network, we’re connecting young creatives from underrepresented backgrounds with industry mentors like Amelia Elson, account executive at Grayling UK – and the impact goes both ways.

👀 Read Amelia’s short Q&A (just 5 questions) on getting started, the experience so far, and her standout moments.

What initially drew you to become a mentor with Creative Mentor Network?

I’ve benefitted from some incredible mentors across my career so far who’ve really given me the time and empathy to help me figure out my goals and passions so I know how valuable it’s been for me and felt I could give back a bit of that or at least use the skills they taught me.

How would you describe your mentoring experience so far in three words?

Thoughtful, creative, learning

What has surprised/challenged you about the mentoring process?

I’d say I’ve been challenged to think outside of the box in more ways that one. As my mentee is at the super early stages of her career, we just really chat about her potential career interests and how to make the most out of her time at uni so she’s got skills ready for a career in her chosen field (whatever that may be). I was expecting to go in and establish a plan of action and get cracking but it’s been refreshing to figure it out alongside her.

What have you learned from this experience so far that has changed your approach to mentoring and managing others?

Not coming to the table with all the answers (or what i think are the answers) but instead listening and taking away thinks to think on. 

Is there a standout moment or conversation with your mentee that really resonated with you?

Seeing my mentee just in the last few months discover a career passion she didn’t really know she had and being able to support that.