By Nalisha Fernandes
Women in Bus and Coach Mentee Director
“We are the sum total of our experiences.” – Maya Angelou
Today, on National Mentoring Day, I find myself reflecting on the mentors who’ve shaped my journey. Each conversation, challenge, and moment of encouragement has helped form who I am today. Mentorship, to me, is more than guidance. It is a relationship built on trust, encouragement, and shared growth.
Why Mentorship Matters
Mentoring has long been recognised as a powerful way for companies to develop talent by leveraging internal knowledge and boosting job satisfaction. The evidence is clear. 70% of UK businesses report that mentoring and coaching programmes have positively impacted overall performance (ABM Report 2025). And yet, not enough people, particularly women, are part of these programmes (Mentorloop).
Mentoring is valuable in any industry, but it’s especially transformative in traditionally male-oriented sectors like engineering, operations, and transport. It helps to:
- Address the skills gap.
- Promote diversity and inclusion, especially for women and underrepresented groups.
- Enhance employee retention, confidence, and career progression.
- Build a pipeline of future leaders and technicians.
The Power of Male Allyship
Progress toward gender parity requires male allies, not least because men still hold more senior positions than women. Their advocacy can help tear down age-old biases and open doors that might otherwise remain closed. When male mentors champion women, they amplify voices, challenge norms, and model inclusive leadership.
My Journey in Transport
Mentorship in the UK’s bus, coach, and community transport industry is gaining momentum, particularly through initiatives aimed at empowering underrepresented groups. One standout example is the Women in Bus and Coach Mentee Director Opportunity, which offers one aspiring female leader a one-year mentored role on the WiBC Board of Directors.
I’ve had the privilege of being selected as the 2025 Mentee Director for this initiative. This opportunity has been nothing short of life changing. From connecting with senior leaders, I never imagined I’d meet (let alone have in my phone contacts!) to attending an All-Party Parliamentary Group for Bus and Coach event at the House of Lords, I’ve gained insights, confidence, and a deeper sense of belonging in an industry I’m proud to serve.
Formal and Informal Mentorship
When we talk about mentorship, formal programs often come to mind, with defined objectives and structured timelines. While formal mentorship programs can be career-shaping, mentorship can also take informal forms that are just as powerful. It can be a coffee chat, authentic feedback, or a simple “You’ve got this.” And those moments matter.
I’ve had the good fortune to work with some wonderful people who made time to listen, advise, and challenge me:
- Fatima Hassan, who championed me, opened doors, made introductions, and showed me what true sponsorship looks like.
- Ben Milway, who taught me the value of standing up for myself and to have those tough conversations anyway.
Paying It Forward
Mentorship is a gift. So today, I celebrate the mentors who have supported me and recommit to being that person for someone else. Because the ripple effect of mentorship is real. And it starts with showing up, making time for that coffee, and offering feedback, for it might be the beginning of something amazing.
