Picture this: a group of 10 curious students from Mentoring Europe and Mentoring Friesland, buzzing with excitement in the streets of Paris, the Eiffel Tower standing tall against the sky. We are ready for a journey of discovery at the 5th European Mentoring Summit.
For us, this wasn’t just another trip or a chance to tick off a box on our CVs. It was an eventful adventure filled with unexpected lessons, heartwarming encounters, and unforgettable moments that left a lasting mark on our hearts.
We participated in the summit to learn and volunteer. Volunteering at the summit wasn’t glamorous – we were the behind-the-scenes crew, the ones ensuring everything ran smoothly so others could shine. But in those moments of hustle and bustle, we discovered something important: the true essence of mentoring isn’t found in grand gestures or flashy events; it’s in the quiet moments of connection, the shared smiles, and the supportive nods.
As we immersed ourselves in the summit’s plenaries and workshops, we were struck by the diversity of voices and experiences that surrounded us. From experienced mentors and mentoring matchmakers sharing their wisdom, to eager ‘mentees’ seeking guidance, every interaction was a reminder of the rich human experience.
Furthermore, we as students had the privilege of sharing our personal stories about mentoring, opening up about our own journeys of growth, and the impact of mentoring in our lives. In those moments of vulnerability and authenticity, we discovered that our stories had the power to inspire and uplift others.
The summit wasn’t just about professional development; it was a journey of personal growth and self-discovery for us. We learned that true fulfillment comes not from awards or achievements but from the relationships we cultivate and the lives we touch along the way, which is what mentoring is about.
In the end, the European Mentoring Summit wasn’t just an event – it was a celebration of humanity, the power of connection and the transformative impact of mentoring. And for us, it was the beginning of a lifelong commitment to embracing growth, fostering connection, and making a difference in the lives of others, one meaningful interaction at a time.