Shared Wisdom, Shared Success: FBN Mentorship in Action
When Karen Shimamoto (Bio’07) first heard about the Forever Buffs Network (FBN) Mentorship Program, she knew it would be a wonderful opportunity to give back and support a fellow Buff. The program offers a unique opportunity to connect with other Buffs through a guided mentor–mentee relationship.
Shimamoto was paired with Gennah Penalosa (Fin’23), a recent graduate who joined the program looking for help in navigating her new career.
“The program was the perfect opportunity to guide me,” said Penalosa. “In looking through the various alumni profiles, I was astonished to see the diversity of ethnicities, careers, interests and other identities across the community.”
For Shimamoto and Penalosa, one of the biggest benefits of the mentorship program has been the opportunity to see the world through each other’s eyes.
“She has taught me so much. Her approaches to professional and personal situations have helped me widen my perspectives and find ways to be more inclusive,” said Shimamoto.
The FBN Mentorship Program offers participants prompts and guided activities to help make the meetings more comfortable and intentional. For example, one prompt that Shimamoto and Penalosa had was to do a learning activity together. They chose to listen to a podcast episode on leadership in the professional setting which focused on women of color. After listening, they discussed their shared experiences as women of color and the different ways in which they approach leadership. The activity helped them learn about each other and deepen their relationship.
“It’s truly an honor to understand how a recent graduate is experiencing and navigating the workforce,” said Shimamoto. “She is also helping me understand how I can advocate, encourage and uplift women of color professionals.”
Whether as a mentor or mentee, you can expand your knowledge and grow with a fellow Buff. Learn more about how to apply for the mentorship program here.
Photo courtesy Karen Shimamoto and Gennah Penalosa