I meet with my mentor, Simon Cowen, Director, Quality Education Nepal, every other month or so at True North café in Melbourne’s inner north. This was initially my choice, as the owner is a friend of mine, but I like to think Simon has grown to love it as much as I do. We drink coffee and chat. There’s an agenda, of course – a few dot points I’ve sent through a week earlier – but these often serve as jumping-off points for broader discussions. He’s been with me through a rollercoaster ride.  About six months into our relationship, I shifted from education into finance, and it wasn’t the smoothest of transitions. I’m not sure I could’ve stuck at it without Simon’s encouragement, advice, and incredible listening skills. His calm presence allows me to work through my frustrations and wild ideas alike, with probing questions that force me to think deeply about the task at hand. I often say that being part of the Kilfinan mentoring program is the best thing I’ve ever done for my career. This is in no small part because those conversations over coffee at True North have helped me grow, guided me, and provided me with the time and space I need to make good decisions about how I can make the best and most sustainable impact I can.