Building yourself through their eyes

MAKING CONNECTIONS...Neha Samar dreamed to life The Flamingo Project, an organisation opening doors for local women. Photo: Supplied

COMMUNITY is only as strong as the connectivity of its people. When doors are open, allowing the two-way passage of knowledge and experience, the entire community is well positioned to feel the benefits.

Born out of frustration with the formality of seeking expertise from professionals in the region, Neha Samar dreamed to life The Flamingo Project, and has since connected many women through practical mentorship.

By brokering introductions between professional women and those who want practical, nuanced insight into potential career paths (and/or fields of interest), the mentors and mentees have not only found success but rewarding friendships.

Discovering an abundance of generous women in the community who are willing to share their experience and expertise, Neha says, “It’s not a bible that you can just open and say, ‘this is my solution,’ but it does give you that advantage of getting to know somebody outside your normal life- using their expertise, experience and building yourself through their eyes. It’s a two-way connection, the mentee learns and the mentor gains fresh perspective.”

In conjunction with building meaningful and productive relationships, the Flamingo Project practically assists mentees with field specific interview techniques, resume writing and developing career direction.

With many women stepping forward to volunteer their time, Neha states, “It’s about looking into ourselves as women in the community and saying that I am sharing the stage with someone else.”

You can find out more about this progressive initiative at https://theflamingoproject.com.au/