Quarter-century chronicle: The odyssey of mentorship, triumph, and lifelong growth

JOSHUA AWESOME, PhD 

Joshua Awesome is a Coaching Psychologist/Executive and Business Performance Coach who has supported over 100,000 professionals across Africa and the globe. He can be reached via: joshua@mindinstitute.africa  

In the heart of the dynamic landscape of professional development, where careers are sculpted and narratives are written, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment—a reflection on 25 years of impactful coaching, mentorship, leadership, serendipitous encounters, and unyielding dedication that have shaped not only individual careers but the collective spirit of success.

Chapter 1: The serendipitous encounter

In the sprawling array of a learning and development conference in Rosebank, Johannesburg, a seasoned keynote speaker, facilitator, and coach embarked on a journey that would alter the course of their professional narrative. A chance encounter with a distinguished HR leader from Ericsson Southern Africa became the overture to a lifelong symphony of collaboration. This chapter teaches us the beauty of unpredictability, reminding us that within the unplanned lies the potential for transformative connections.

Call to action: Embrace serendipity. Engage in conversations, attend events, and welcome unexpected encounters. You never know when a chance meeting can open doors to profound collaborations and lasting relationships.

Chapter 2: The power of underestimation

Within the intimate setting of a pivotal training session, a mantra echoed — “Never underestimate the power of being underestimated.” These words became the guiding beacon for Ayavuyah Jack, a candidate attorney, as he navigated the intricacies of his career. His team’s triumph in winning the Deal Maker Award 2024, which began with calls last year, calling on the corporate finance industry to submit their nominations for Deal of the Year.

With the assistance of the independent panel, and taking into account the number of nominations each deal received, a shortlist of 3 – 5 deals was drawn.

These deals are then evaluated by an independent panel that goes on to select a winner based on a variety of criteria, including but not limited to:

• The transformational aspects of the deal   
• The execution complexity   
•   The deal size   
•  The potential value creation of the deal

This stands as a testament to the resilience born from embracing challenges. This chapter urges us to reflect on our own underestimations and see them not as barriers but as stepping stones to greatness.

Call to action: Embrace challenges. Recognise that being underestimated is an opportunity to prove your capabilities. Turn obstacles into stepping stones and let resilience be your guiding force. 

Chapter 3: Celebrating every educational journey

As we flip the pages to the recent International Day of Education, the story of Ayavuyah becomes an anthem. It resonates with the spirit of celebrating every educational journey, irrespective of its stage. Each step, whether it be the first or the hundredth, is a testament to dedication and the promise of triumph. This chapter calls for a collective acknowledgment of the power of education to transform lives.

Call to action: Celebrate education. Whether you are a coach, mentor or a mentee, recognize the value of continuous learning. Support educational initiatives and inspire others to embark on their unique learning journeys.

Chapter 4: A collaborative learning week

What began as a chance meeting in 2014 unfolded into a collaborative triumph. Invited to pitch for a learning week, the team not only secured the opportunity but delivered a transformative programme for Ericsson in 2015. This chapter illuminates the power of seizing opportunities and fostering collaboration for mutual growth. It underscores the significance of shared efforts in creating lasting impacts.

Call to action: Seize opportunities. Foster collaboration within your professional circles. Together, we can achieve more. Remember that collaboration is not just about achieving success but creating a collective legacy.

Chapter 5: A legacy of coaching and mentorship

As we peruse the pages of the past 25 years, a legacy of coaching and mentorship stands tall. The impact on careers, exemplified by Ayavuyah’s journey, showcases the ripple effect of investing in others. This chapter is not just about celebrating achievements but also about recognizing the responsibility to uplift and guide the next generation of professionals.

Call to action: Find a coach and also BE a mentor. Recognise the power of guiding others on their professional journeys. Share your knowledge, provide support, and contribute to the growth of those around you. Your legacy lies in the lives you positively influence.

Epilogue: Crafting the next chapter

As this quarter-century chronicle reflection of my career journey unfolds, let it inspire action. Embrace the unpredictability of life, navigate challenges with resilience, celebrate the power of education, foster collaborations, and invest in the coaching and mentorship legacy. Let me bring my expertise to tailor something for you, your interns, students, professionals and or leaders at any level. 

Together, let’s script the next chapters filled with even greater achievements, deeper collaborations, and the unwavering spirit of lifelong learning. Get in touch I am just an email away.

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