On International Women's Day (8 March), Stone Federation welcomed 60 women from natural stone companies, architects, main contractors and clients to London to celebrate the launch of the Women in Natural Stone (WINS) Mentoring Programme.
The event was chaired by Becca Cranfield of Athena Stonecare and Tamsin Pickeral of Szerelmey while guest speaker Tamsin Napier-Munn inspired, challenged and enthused all those present.
This new initiative will connect those in the earlier years of their career with those more experienced in their field.
The WINS Mentoring Programme is now open to any woman in the industry. All you need to do is email sara@stonefed.org.uk to request the registration form.
Once the Stone Federation has received an application from someone seeking a mentor, they will be matched with a mentor and an introductory email connecting the two will be sent.
From there it will be between the mentor and mentee to arrange a first catch up and some 'ice-breaker' questions will be provided to ease the flow of conversation, but it’s up to the pair whether they use them or not.
Each mentor/mentee is encouraged to commit to an initial six-month period, which can be stopped if it is felt by one or both parties that it is not working out. During the six months, the mentor should be prepared to meet with the mentee two or three times in person or via Teams and should be prepared to communicate via email or phone at least once a month.
Mentors come from across the natural stone, architectural and construction sectors. All of these women are experienced within their professions and well-placed to support and encourage those in the initial stages of their careers.
Applications are still being accepted for women who'd like to become a mentor. If this is something that you would be interested in, please email sara@stonefed.org.uk.
