As a first-time CEO navigating a new role and organisation, joining the Kilfinan Mentoring Program has shaped my journey in ways I didn’t expect.

I thought having a mentor would look and feel a certain way: me, drowning in imposter syndrome, pretending I know what I’m doing, seeking counsel in moments of crisis. My mentor: someone with all the answers, delivering nuggets of leadership gold, an oracle of truth.  

But working alongside Second Bite CEO Daniel Moorfield has redefined my view of what a mentorship can be – and for that, I’m grateful.

I’ve learned a mentorship doesn’t need to be grounded in teaching or delivering hard truths – rather, it’s a valuable professional friendship between two people who understand each other’s work, the shared challenges they face, and are prepared to collaborate on solutions together. A mentor ‘gets’ your world without the preamble, and you, theirs.

Daniel has become a consistent, level-headed and trusted advisor for me. He’s made space for important, candid conversations, teased out complex ideas and helped me explore alternative perspectives – always with my best professional interests at heart.

Daniel shows great generosity of spirit and always approaches discussions through a lens of “I’m not always right; but here’s how I would think about it.” He’s helped me build upon my own leadership foundation, identify opportunities for growth and most importantly – supported me to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Because that’s the gig.

Thanks, Daniel. Here’s to continuing the journey!