As part of our #IWD26 spotlight series, we’re celebrating the power of connection, confidence and community through Digital Her.
This week, we’re sharing two powerful perspectives from our latest MentorHER cohort, proudly sponsored by CGI. Penny and Vicky were paired as mentor and mentee - and from their very first conversation, the impact was clear.
From setting structured goals and building accountability, to growing confidence, securing interviews and navigating a career change into tech, their story is a powerful reminder that representation and meaningful support truly matter.
Here’s what they had to say about their MentorHER journey so far.
Penny, EleVAte:
I have to say, whoever paired us together absolutely nailed it. From our very first conversation, there was an instant connection. We discovered so much in common straight away, which made it easy to build trust quickly.
At the start of our mentoring, we talked about what good support looked like for Vicky. We agreed she would carve out an hour each day for her own development, and we set a rhythm of meeting every three weeks to keep momentum strong and focused.
My role is to create clarity, accountability, and belief - Vicky has done the rest.
What’s impressed me most is her commitment to that structure.
She hasn’t waited to be told what to do. She’s taken ownership. She’s put herself forward for roles, secured multiple interviews - including one with a very well-known company (which I’ll let her share when she’s ready!).
Beyond her career, she’s also stretched herself personally - working towards her driving licence and her boat licence, both of which are important milestones for her. That level of self-leadership is rare.
Vicky is ambitious, tenacious, and deeply committed to her own growth. She is an absolute dream to mentor.
I’m incredibly excited to see where she is and what she’s achieved by the end of our six months together.
Vicky:
Being part of the MentorHER programme has been a truly empowering experience. As someone new to the digital world and recently making a career change into tech after graduating, having this kind of support has been invaluable.
From my very first conversation with Penny, I felt an immediate connection. We discovered we had so much in common, including many of the challenges we’ve both faced, which made it really easy for me to open up and speak honestly about my journey.
Penny’s guidance has already had a meaningful impact. Her advice, combined with her own lived experience, has helped me gain clarity, build confidence, and take actionable steps towards my professional goals. I feel supported, understood and encouraged every time we meet.
We now meet every three weeks and each session leaves me feeling more motivated and assured in the path I’m building in tech. I’m truly grateful for this programme and for the mentorship Penny has offered me.
