Mentoring

The Data Visualisation Society (DVS) runs a mentorship programme for people ‘early in career’ linking mentees and mentors together for 10 weeks. The DVS have a great team of volunteers who organise materials, support participants and create opportunities for celebration.

In May 2023, on the way home from work I saw an email from the Data Visualisation Society reaching out for people interested in becoming a mentor to those early in their data visualisation careers. I have always thought it crucial to develop skills and experience in design thinking and creativity so, I thought I'd sign up and share the experience I have. I also thought that, even though I would be acting as a mentor, I was certain to learn something from the experience too.

And, I was so right! I volunteered to mentor two mentees, both of whom were fantastic. It was exciting to hear from them both about their goals and aspirations of the ten week programme with both taking a pragmatic view on how much could be achieved. Unfortunately one of my mentees were struck by illness mid-way through the programme but we plan to pick up where we left off and continue with the remaining sessions. Spending just under an hour each week meant we could cover a lot of ground and I could blend sessions throughout the week.

My other mentee had started the mentorship program at the beginning of a job application process for a data visualisation role. Spoiler alert, she got offered the role! It is very cool to have played a role in the preparation for her successful application. Throughout the time I saw an engaged, open and committed mentee who actively worked on ideas and suggestions between sessions. She listened, digested and challenged my ideas and suggestions. It was a really enjoyable time sharing little insights from my experience to help add a different perspective.

I’m looking forward to mentoring in the next cohort, and I’d recommend the experience to anyone.

Check out the Data Visualisation Society here, they have a fantastic network of data visualisation specialists and a wealth of resources.