A Mentor’s Perspective SILHOUETTE AWARDS
Reflecting on their experiences so far, a selection of mentors from the 2024 Silhouette Awards programme shair their perspectives on the mentor/mentee journey.
Mentorship is very often framed as a one-way street: knowledge passed down, experience shared, and doors opened. But in reality, the truth is far more dynamic. The Silhouette Awards not only recognise and celebrate rising talent but also acknowledge the leaders who choose to guide them. These lighting industry professionals understand that giving back can also put them firmly on the path to greater personal and professional growth. Mentors often begin the journey in the Silhouette Awards, hoping to inspire, uplift, and empower others. Yet often, they find themselves deeply immersed and motivated by the process. The Silhouette Awards fourth-year programme is now well underway, with activities and relationships building and strengthening between the mentors and mentees. Some of the mentors from the 2025 programme have shared what mentorship means to them. Ratna Kumari says: “Since I started this journey as a mentor, it became clear to me that it’s not just about guiding someone. Every conversation challenges me to reflect on how I lead, listen, and grow. Does my mentee learn from my experience? Yes, but I gain a fresh perspective, renewed purpose, and a constant reminder of why I started in the first place. To call it “giving back” feels like an understatement; the value flows both ways, and the impact is real. I’m proud to say that this journey doesn’t just teach, it gives wisdom along the way.” Kumari’s sentiment of mutual value and deep learning is being experienced across each of this year’s mentoring partnerships. Armaghan Ahmadi adds: “Mentoring in this programme has been a two-way learning experience. Working with Anthony Girgis on his professional goals and project has opened up meaningful conversations, especially around how culture shapes lighting in urban spaces. The younger generation’s passion for using light to solve real problems truly gives me hope for the future.” For many, the mentorship programme has been a 118 / 119
catalyst for self-reflection and fresh thinking. Fabiana Nery Pardhanani shared what it is she values from the experience so far: “It has been a good learning curve for both of us. We are learning a lot from each other, finding many things in common and topics to discuss. Tiago Winer is a senior designer with a lot of experience. Therefore, our approach is more about future ideas and how to develop a few areas that are not working well. We are both learning about deeper conversations on lighting topics and getting one another’s opinions on developments. It has been a good journey, and we are enjoying it very much.” Sometimes, the mentor’s journey is not just about support, it’s about being transformed by their mentee’s ambition. Philip Hammond explains: “I was, of course, very excited to start the mentorship with Lally Wildelska. I have encouraged her to step out of that comfort zone and go forward into the unknown. This has been an amazing process for me as an international educator, illumination engineer and with 54 years of experience. I have been challenged to make it my business to ensure that Lally succeeds. It will not only be her success, but it will uplift my spirits to the highest if she succeeds. It means that I have to plan each session for her next step to success.” While mentorship in the lighting industry builds technical and physical growth, it often also brings something more profound - a human connection. Eugenia Cheng expresses this through her partnership with Petra Koza. She says: “This mentorship is a two-way journey for Petra and me. While I give, I also receive – and vice versa. Although we are of similar age, our personal and professional paths are alike yet quite different. “Our journey is about building a trustworthy friendship, dedicating time to help each other hone new skills, and developing empathy as we share our challenges. We strive for honesty and hold each other accountable for our commitments. “I aim to provide options and fresh perspectives,