Become a STEM Sherpa – a mentor for the next generation

Soumya Singh

Software Engineer, Deutsche Bank

STEM career women, like Soumya Singh, are being encouraged to give back to the next generation of girls and non-binary people interested in STEM, by becoming their ‘Sherpa’ (mentor) for a minimum of four months.

As a Sherpa, you provide Sherpees (your mentee) with real STEM career insight. Through the Student to STEMette (STS) programme (part of Deutsche Bank’s Born to Be youth engagement programme), you will support them in their STEM education and career decision making. The STS programme aims to increase the confidence of girls and non-binary students within the STEM space and ultimately amount to more women choosing STEM careers.

My first formal role as a mentor began at STEMettes. I joined the well-structured Student to STEMette programme as a Sherpa. My first mentee, or Sherpee, was a fifteen-year-old aspiring to a career in cybersecurity. Before starting my career, I had also benefited from insights from industry professionals that helped me shape my goals. The STS programme was an excellent opportunity to give back.

One-to-one mentorship provides a safe space for mentees, especially those who need time to open up, to explore without being overwhelmed.

Ambition planning for a career in STEM

I started by helping my Sherpee put her ambitions into an action plan.

I introduced my mentee to an eclectic mix of industry activities. Together we explored the breadth of investment banking technology. I gave my mentee networking and mock interview experience. The aim was to highlight development areas and transferable skills.

As we progressed and interacted with other Sherpees and Sherpas, I discovered how formal mentorship programmes are helpful for people from different walks of life who may not have had exposure to professionals in their desired professions.

Mentorships, for mentees from underrepresented groups, provide access to role models and a stimulus to their confidence.

One-to-one mentorship provides a safe space for mentees, especially those who need time to open up, to explore without being overwhelmed.

Seeking out support as a mentor

I have gained insight into my work and career through my mentoring practice.

I didn’t know all the answers, so I got support from my colleagues. With help, I was able to increase my mentees understanding of cybersecurity.

To seek guidance, whether for ourselves or someone else, beyond our vicinity is an essential skill. Many of us will go on to lead increasingly diverse teams in a dynamic industry, a role for which this skill is a must.

Whatever stage of our careers we are at, participation as a mentor, a mentee, or both have clear benefits. The sooner we make mentoring a mainstay in our professional lives, formally or informally, the sooner we will all reap the benefits.

Sherpas are women role models that encourage and help to build Sherpees’ employability skills, STEM industry knowledge and professional network.

Sherpees are girls and non-binary students aged between 15-21.

Feedback is collected from Sherpees and Sherpas before, halfway and after their mentoring. In the 2019-2020 cohorts:

• 100% stated improvements in self-confidence.
• 100% stated awareness of STEM career has increased.
• 100% of Sherpas (mentors) recommend STS to peers.