Recently I had the privilege of speaking at the Hervey Bay Chamber of Commerce breakfast alongside a panel of local business leaders. One of the questions we were asked was around what has shaped us most in our careers. Across the panel, a common theme emerged: mentorship.
For many of us, the presence of someone who could challenge us, guide us, and hold us accountable has been pivotal. Not someone to give us all the answers, but someone willing to share experience, perspective and encouragement when it mattered most. Someone who has walked the path before us.
I can say personally that having someone believe in you before you fully believe in yourself changes the trajectory of a career. That’s why the launch of the FCPIA x FCYP Mentorship Program has been such a significant milestone. It is not simply an event initiative. It is a long term investment in capability, confidence and continuity within our industry.
Strong regions are not built by accident. They are built by collaboration, shared wisdom, and intentional investment in people. As an industry body, FCPIA has a role not just in policy discussion and networking events, but in shaping future leaders. Mentorship accelerates confidence, strengthens decision making, and fosters long term commitment to our region.
The question I’ll leave you with is this: If someone hadn’t invested in you, where would you be today? And perhaps more importantly, who are you investing in next?
