Acting Deputy High Commissioner at the British High Commission Iona Thomas hosted a reception at her residence for participants of the inaugural Chevening Mentoring Scheme.

Some of the Chevening alumni who participated as mentors included Yasmeen Rehman, former member of National Assembly and entrepreneur, Aasia Sail Khan, entrepreneur, pharmacist and gender consultant, Hassan Shah, lawyer and entrepreneur and Khadija Ali, legal practitioner and development consultant.

Ms Thomas said: “Our Chevening alumni are contributing to a brighter future for Pakistan by helping build the capacity of future lawyers and entrepreneurs.The Chevening Mentoring Scheme has played an important role in promoting gender equality, inclusion and opportunity for all which are integral to our work in Pakistan. We had 80pc women as mentees in the scheme, and a record 60pc of women were selected for Chevening scholarships in the UK last year.”

The British High Commission launched the inaugural Chevening Mentoring Scheme last year. The project was designed for entry level lawyers and entrepreneurs with leadership potential, to enhance skills, knowledge and work performance. A total of 10 mentees (eight women and two men, including one each from minorities) were inducted in the scheme.

The year-long scheme helped the mentees to grow professionally and learn to meet challenges at the workplace. It also helped them enhance their communication skills and confidence and gave them a chance to attend formal trainings.

Published in Dawn, March 1st, 2021