Reframing Risk: Why Funders Should Prioritise Mentoring in Fragile Markets
In fragile markets, risk is often treated as a constraint—something to be minimised, avoided, or borne reluctantly. But here’s a thought: what if we reframed risk not as a reason to hesitate, but as a reason to invest differently? For funders navigating volatile environments—where instability, inequality, or weak infrastructure complicate traditional development approaches—mentoring offers a […]
Who Mentors the Mentors? Why Even Experienced Leaders Need Guidance
Across the mentoring programmes we’ve designed or supported — from multinational donor-funded initiatives to grassroots entrepreneur networks — one question often emerges as a critical factor in long-term success: Who is supporting the mentors? It’s easy to assume that once someone is labelled a ‘mentor’, the development stops. That they’ve already ‘made it’. That their […]
The Missing Link in Leadership Development: It’s Not Another Training
Every organisation says leadership matters. And yet, leadership pipelines continue to break down—quietly, persistently, and often expensively. Public and private sector organisations, as well as NGOs, invest millions each year in identifying and developing future leaders. But if you’re honest, how many of those programmes actually translate into long-term, effective leadership across your organisation? How […]
How to Keep Mentors Engaged: Non-Monetary Incentives That Actually Work
What Non-Monetary Incentives Keep Mentors Engaged? If you manage a mentoring programme, you’ve likely faced the challenge of keeping mentors engaged. Many organisations grapple with this. And while financial incentives can play a role, they’re not the only way to keep mentors engaged. So, what truly motivates mentors? What are some non-monetary incentives that many […]
How to Launch a Successful Mentoring Programme: The Key Steps Most Organisations Overlook
An organisation launches a mentoring programme with enthusiasm. Mentors are paired with mentees, the programme kicks off, and then… nothing. Engagement drops, relationships fizzle out, and impact is unclear. Sound familiar? Many organisations assume that simply connecting people is enough. But the reality is, mentoring programmes don’t fail because of a lack of good intentions—they […]
Why Mentoring Matters: The Key to Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders
Leadership today is under immense pressure to adapt, evolve, and inspire in a world that is increasingly interconnected, uncertain, and complex. But where will the next generation of leaders come from? More importantly, how will they develop the skills needed to lead with vision and resilience? One answer has stood the test of time, quietly […]
Supporting foundation professionals effectively: the critical role of mentoring and community
Professionals in the dynamic world of foundations and grant-making organisations face unique challenges that require a blend of strategic vision, operational expertise, and the ability to build and sustain meaningful relationships within and beyond their organisations. However, they often find themselves navigating these challenges with limited support, making structured mentoring and community programmes essential resources […]
Design a High-Impact Mentoring Programme: How to Equip Mentors & Prepare Mentees for Thriving Relationships
Have you ever felt that an instant connection is key to a successful mentoring relationship? It’s true, a natural rapport can make things easier. But the truth is, successful mentoring goes beyond just a good fit. Our experience at The Human Edge reveals that training mentors and preparing mentees is what truly unlocks high-impact mentoring […]
Are You Mentor-Material? How to Maximise Your Mentorability
Mentoring is often hailed as a key to unlocking potential and achieving career goals in the professional world. We all crave that wise guide, a beacon of experience ready to illuminate our path. But this equation isn’t quite so one-sided as most believe it to be. At The Human Edge, we know that successful mentoring […]
Fireside Chat: How to ask powerful questions that inspire deeper reflection and growth
Have you ever felt stuck in a rut, unable to see a clear path forward? Or perhaps you’ve been tasked with mentoring someone who seems to be circling the same challenges? The answer might lie in the art of asking powerful questions. This insightful Fireside Chat hosted by The Human Edge explored the transformative potential […]