To mark National Mentoring Day, we're shining a spotlight on the people who make MentorHER possible, starting with Chimdinma Onwukwe. Through our MentorHER Spotlight series, we're sharing the experiences of previous mentors and mentees, exploring the impact mentoring can have on confidence, career development and building connections in tech.
With applications now open for MentorHER Cohort 4, delivered through Manchester Digital's DigitalHER programme in partnership with Autotrader, we're looking for both mentors and mentees to join us from January to July 2027.
Applications close Sunday 8 November. Find out more and apply for MentorHER Cohort 4.
Name: Chimdinma Onwukwe
Role: Mentor
Position at time of programme: Product Manager
Mentee's position: Software Engineer
What made you want to get involved in MentorHER?
I've always been passionate about teaching, mentoring and giving back, particularly to people looking to build or transition into careers in technology. Having made the transition from law into tech myself, I understand how challenging it can be to navigate a new career path. So, when I heard about MentorHER, it felt like a great opportunity to give back and support other women on similar journeys. I'd previously done more group coaching and mentoring, so I was also excited about the opportunity to work more closely with someone on a one-to-one basis and make a meaningful difference in their career journey.
What was the most valuable or memorable part of your experience? The most memorable part for me was seeing my mentee gradually build confidence in herself and recognise the value she brings to the workplace. A lot of our conversations centred around building confidence, advocating for herself, navigating career progression and having conversations about pay.
I remember walking her through portfolio building, documenting her achievements, and also sharing resources with her.
There were those moments when she'd come back to our next session and share how she'd applied something we'd discussed to a real situation at work. Seeing her become more confident in speaking up and owning her achievements was incredibly rewarding. It reminded me why mentorship matters and how much of a difference simply having someone in your corner can make.
What impact has the programme had on you, personally or professionally?
For me, mentorship has always been a two-way experience. As much as you're pouring into someone else, you're also learning and growing yourself. Through sharing my experiences, lessons and advice with my mentee, I found myself reflecting on my own career journey, how far I've come, the challenges I've overcome and the opportunities that still lie ahead.
Sometimes, the advice you give someone else is also a reminder of what you need to keep practising yourself. The programme reinforced the importance of being intentional about my own growth, recognising my achievements and continuing to push myself beyond my comfort zone. It was a really fulfilling experience, both personally and professionally.
What would you say to someone considering applying as a mentor or mentee?
Just go for it!
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Applications are now open
Applications for MentorHER Cohort 4 are open to both mentors and mentees until Sunday 8 November 2026.
Whether you're at the beginning of your digital or technology career and looking for guidance, or you're an experienced professional who would like to support the next generation of women in tech, MentorHER offers an opportunity to get involved.
