Celebrating Connection, Growth and Achievement: The SBM Mentoring Programme Wraps Up for 2024
An evening of reflection, recognition and community spirit.
On Thursday 10th April, the School of Business and Management (SBM) at Queen Mary University of London hosted its SBM Mentoring Celebration Ceremony – an uplifting evening that marked the conclusion of another successful year of the SBM Mentoring Programme.
Set against the striking backdrop of London’s skyline from the Graduate Terrace, the event brought together mentors, mentees, staff and supporters to celebrate the dedication, growth and collaboration that have defined this year’s programme.
A programme built on connection and growth
The SBM Mentoring Programme is a six-month initiative that pairs current students with members of our alumni community or UK-based working professionals. It’s designed to support students in navigating the transition from university to the world of work — with guidance on everything from CV writing and interview techniques, to building confidence and expanding professional networks.
This year, the programme welcomed 96 mentors and 96 mentees. Together, they’ve completed hundreds of mentoring sessions, shared countless insights, and built valuable relationships that will last far beyond the end of the programme.
Voices from the programme
Reflecting on her experience, one mentee shared:
"This programme connected me with an experienced mentor from the industry I aspired to work in. Through regular meetings, my mentor provided insights into industry trends, career development strategies, and practical advice on building a professional profile.” - Maki Zhang, MSc Digital Marketing Student
And from a mentor perspective, the impact was just as rewarding:
“My mentoring experience has been a good one so far. My mentee has been very keen… he has been very proactive in applying for internships and I’ve helped him with his CV, cover letter and potential interview questions. I look forward to more of our interactions – it’s an excellent scheme.” – Ian Butler, Executive Director at JP Morgan
Celebrating excellence: This year’s award winners
The evening also featured a special awards segment to honour standout participants who have gone above and beyond during the programme. We’re proud to share this year’s winners:
Mentee Awards
- Most Significant Growth Award: Ufuk Gueldinken
- Proactive Learner Award: Baoming Liu
- Resilience and Determination Award: Nihat Ismayilzada
Mentor Awards
- Inspirational Mentor Award : Rita Francesca Valentini
- Exceptional Guidance Award: Saad Mustafiz
- Dedicated Advocate Award: Katrina Barron
In addition, we were delighted to present recognition for Long Service to Sandeep Saib, Senior Business Development Executive at Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang LLP, in recognition of her continued commitment and outstanding contribution to the SBM Mentoring Programme over the years. As well as recognition for being an All Rounder to Sophie Harris, Deputy Director of Human Resources at Queen Mary, for her exceptional support, insight, and all-round brilliance as a mentor.
“Let's give a round of applause for our incredible award winners! Their passion and effort have truly enhanced this programme, and these accolades are so well-deserved. Choosing from such an impressive pool of nominees was no easy feat – a powerful testament to the dedication that defines our mentoring community. And we would like thank to every single mentor and mentee who poured their energy and commitment into their partnerships. They are the heart and soul of this programme, and their active engagement is what makes it such a resounding success!” – Naima Zannat, Business Development and Mentoring Officer, Queen Mary University of London.
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Applications for the SBM Mentoring Programme are now closed for this academic year, but will reopen next year. If you’re a student from the School of Business and Management and you’d like to take part, you can keep an eye out on our careers page for when the programme reopens.
To everyone who made this year’s programme a success — thank you. Your commitment to mentorship, curiosity and collaboration continues to shape the future of our students and our community.