A Journey of Mentorship, Friendship, and Lifelong Commitment

As I reflect on these images—a collage spanning nearly a decade—I see more than just moments frozen in time. I see a story of growth, resilience, and deep, lifelong connection.

📍 The bottom left photo: A proud moment in 2016, celebrating the MSc graduation of Dr Priyanka Singh, a brilliant spirited student full of promise. I am proud to have encouraged her to embark on her doctoral journey. The outcomes have been astonishing in every way: she wrote an incredible thesis which she is preparing for publication just now, and she has found joy and success in every aspect of her life.

📍 The next photo: Fast forward to 2024—Priyanka’s wedding in India, a celebration of love, and a privilege for me to witness.

📍 The right-side images: A visit to her home in Leeds last weekend, meeting her newborn, reuniting with her wonderful husband and mother. A full-circle moment, witnessing not only her academic and professional success but also the joys of her personal life.

These photos are more than milestones; they reflect my philosophy on mentorship—one that extends far beyond academic guidance. To me, supporting doctoral students, mentees, and clients is not a finite task. It is a lifelong commitment. Their successes—whether in research, career, or personal life—become my own successes.

Today, Dr. Priyanka Singh is not just a former student; she is a respected academic at the University of Leeds and now serves on the Advisory Board of The Scholars' Mentor (www.scholarsmentor.com). She is also a great friend. In her testimony, she kindly reflects on how my mentorship was not only academic but also empowering, giving her the belief that she could achieve so much more in life. And indeed, she has!

Someone recently asked me how my work as a documentary filmmaker, writer, and life coach connects. My answer is simple:

✨ It is about finding Light in human beings. ✨

In the end, what truly matters are relationships—the bonds we build, the belief we instil, and the light we help uncover in one another. That is the greatest reward of all.

💛 To all my students, mentees, and colleagues—your journeys continue to inspire me, and I am honoured to walk alongside you.

And to everybody else: feel free to DM me for bespoke coaching and advice - it might just change your life!

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