hen I became CEO of Plan International Australia, someone mentioned the Kilfinan Australia mentoring program, but I was so overwhelmed by the new role that I delayed applying until a year later. The application process was easy, and the Kilfinan team quickly matched me with Lynne Jensen, for which I am incredibly grateful.

Lynne brought deep expertise in organisational development and HR and had Board experience with a similar purpose-driven organisation. She was warm, wise and genuinely joyful. We met monthly, often over lunch. Early on, I would share what was most pressing – ideas I was testing or challenges I couldn’t discuss with my team or Board chair. Sometimes, I simply needed to vent or cry; I always felt truly heard and supported.

As our relationship evolved, Lynne would gently reflect patterns and insights back to me, deepening my self-awareness and growth as a leader. Over time, our conversations became a two-way exchange of advice, empathy, book recommendations, frameworks, and introductions to people who could help me further.

Although we never made it to Kilfinan events together, I always knew she was just a phone call away. This year, Lynne took a well-deserved sabbatical, and we decided to pause our regular catchups. Yet, I often ask myself, “What would Lynne suggest?” Her calm and kindness continue to guide my decisions.

I highly recommend the Kilfinan mentoring program—and only wish I’d joined sooner.