As John C. Maxwell once infamously said,
“One of the greatest values of mentors is the ability to see ahead what others cannot see and to help them navigate a course to their destination.”
For this very reason, business executive Fabiola Gomez has dedicated herself to mentoring young university students throughout her career.
Aside from wearing the hat of CEO and founder of successful beauty and wellness concierge service LUXit, Fabiola has taken pride in bringing young university students into her business and equipping them the skills, knowledge, and experience to take into the workforce once they graduate. With over 20 years of business experience, and a background in corporate law and as a sought-after brand consultant for high-end fashion brand Camilla, Fabiola’s expertise is unmatched. Despite the ongoing impact of Covid-19 on many businesses, including her own, Fabiola has only expanded her mentorship program, viewing it as an opportunity to nurture young university students who are keen to gain insight into the business world. While the future is unknown, the integral need for University Students to learn skills and knowledge from industry professionals remains.
Despite her busy schedule, what is clear is Fabiola’s passion for mentorship, which she considers to be an integral part of her life.
“I am a mentor for university interns introducing them to a professional environment and getting them ready for the world of business. Especially in the time of COVID 19, it is ever so more important to give people hope and help support the next generation. Navigating and respecting the restrictions, I have taken on more interns than ever to help them fulfill their university curriculum requirements and build connections in the business world.”
When asked about her approach to mentorship during these uncertain times, Fabiola speaks positively about her mentorship program. Working within the COVID distancing rules and requirements for PPE, Fabiola took the time to meet each intern to get to know them, remove any possible fears and gain an understanding of their professional dreams if there were no barriers. This approach to mentorship has created a great bond with her internship team, and by asking each intern what they would like to be when they grow up, and how they want to grow in their career, Fabiola was able to turn any anxiety into excitement.
“Here at LUXit, we value the importance of mentoring and passing on your knowledge, skills, and experience and have adapted to the current circumstances. I meet with our interns via Zoom to discuss the daily tasks, making sure to check in with every intern, and make sure they feel supported in the task they are assigned. While we are not meeting in person, human connection has not been lost, and it has been an incredibly rewarding experience so far”
Ultimately, while Covid-19 has changed how individuals learn and work, the importance of continuing mentorship programs cannot be denied. Fabiola’s dedication to mentoring should inspire other successful business executives to pass on their knowledge and business experience to shape the future generation. For now – ever so more- empathetic listening is critical, and Fabiola urges other business executives with mentors to “ follow up with extra care and compassion, or send your team air hugs and virtual hugs”. During these uncertain times, it may seem like a difficult time to take on interns; however, the value of mentorship cannot be denied, and as Fabiola Gomez can attest, is a rewarding and highly respected job to take on.
Written by Imogen Stone
