The Power of Mentoring: Why I’m Passionate About Lifting Others Up

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my career, it’s that none of us achieve success alone. Behind every milestone, every new opportunity, and every leap of faith, there’s often someone quietly championing us, offering guidance, encouragement, or simply a listening ear. For me, that’s the true essence of mentoring-and it’s why I’m so passionate about it.

My Mentoring Journey

My own journey in the travel and tourism industry has been shaped by the generosity of others. I started out as a Holiday Rep in Cyprus, full of excitement but also nerves, wondering if I’d be able to find my place in such a dynamic, fast-paced sector. Along the way, I was lucky enough to cross paths with people who offered advice, shared their stories, and helped me see possibilities I’d never imagined for myself.

Those early experiences taught me the value of having someone in your corner-someone who believes in you, even on the days you struggle to believe in yourself. As my career progressed, from frontline roles to co-founding Antella Recruitment, I realised I wanted to pay that support forward. Becoming a mentor was a natural step, and it’s been one of the most rewarding aspects of my professional life.

Why Mentoring Matters

Mentoring, for me, goes far beyond sharing knowledge or giving career advice. It’s about creating a safe, supportive space where someone can be honest about their ambitions and their fears. It’s about listening without judgement, asking the right questions, and helping people uncover their own strengths and solutions.

I’m passionate about mentoring because I know how isolating the world of work can sometimes feel-especially for women and underrepresented groups in our industry. The travel sector is full of opportunities, but it can also be daunting, with its ever-changing landscape and high expectations. Having a mentor can make all the difference, turning uncertainty into possibility and setbacks into stepping stones.

The Ripple Effect

What I love most about mentoring is the ripple effect it creates. When you help someone gain confidence, develop new skills, or overcome a challenge, you’re not just impacting their journey-you’re strengthening teams, building more resilient businesses, and, ultimately, shaping a more inclusive and supportive industry.

I’ve had the privilege of watching mentees grow into leaders, take on roles they once thought were out of reach, and then go on to mentor others themselves. That sense of community and shared growth is what keeps me inspired. It’s a reminder that every bit of encouragement, every piece of honest feedback, and every shared experience can spark real change.

My Approach to Mentoring

I believe that effective mentoring is rooted in authenticity and empathy. I strive to be approachable and honest, sharing not only my successes but also my mistakes and lessons learned. I want those I mentor to feel comfortable asking questions, voicing doubts, and setting their own pace for growth. There’s no one-size-fits-all path, and I’m a firm believer in celebrating both the big wins and the small, quiet victories along the way.

Mentoring is also about empowering others to build networks and resources that will support them long after our formal relationship ends. Whether it’s helping someone prepare for an interview, navigate a tricky workplace situation, or simply believe in their own potential, I see every mentoring relationship as a partnership built on trust and mutual respect.

Why I’ll Always Be a Mentor

At the heart of it all, I mentor because I believe in people-their stories, their ambitions, and their ability to create positive change. The travel and tourism industry is only as strong as the people within it, and I want to do my part to ensure that everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, has the support they need to thrive.

If I can help someone feel seen, valued, and capable of achieving their dreams, then I know I’m making a difference. And for me, that’s the most rewarding part of all.

So, whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, know that you’re not alone. There’s a whole community out there, ready to lift you up-and I’m proud to be a part of it.

- Elena Ktori, Founder, Antella Recruitment