“Mentoring is a great privilege: to be able to help develop graduates in their careers and see them grow into themselves,” Scott Low said.

Scott’s view as mentor to Inah, and other Shell graduates, is founded on his own experience. “I believe it can take years to really know yourself. It can also take a long time to ‘learn’ a company by yourself. Through mentoring, I can help others navigate their journey.”

Scott has been with Shell for 10 years and his current role is Country Contracts and Procurement Manager, Upstream, Philippines. An Australian, Scott holds a Bachelor of Arts majoring in English from the University of Western Australia.

Scott’s day-to-day role offers lots of diversity and gives him opportunity to have input into other departments and teams: “It’s an insight for Shell graduates in a way, as my role often goes beyond my discipline of Contracts and Procurement. Plus I regularly get called on by other teams as a subject matter expert.”

During his work day Scott makes a deliberate effort to prioritise one-on-one meetings with his mentee Inah. “It can be a challenge for a mentor to resist the temptation to drive straight into solution or advice mode when really the best approach is to ask open or reflective questions. This helps develop the sort of self-awareness and self-reflection that can equip a mentee to deal with dilemmas or problems in future.”

“By having an open mind to this you might take your life – your career – in new and exciting directions.”

Shell mentor Scott Low having a casual conversation over coffee with graduate Inah Felisse Margaja

Scott notes this approach has certainly suited their mentor/mentee relationship. “Like many graduates, Inah has wrestled with the notion of ‘career’ and the expectations around that: what it means for her. This is where having a mentor can make such a difference: for both parties really.”

Scott’s most vital tip for graduates is to seize opportunities for new experiences and personal growth that align with what you like doing.

Concerning Inah, Scott said: “She is well-grounded, pragmatic with strong family values and conducts herself with humility. She also has a strong sense of contributing to the nation and improving the lives of Filipino people through access to clean energy. Perhaps because of these qualities she has built strong relationships with her team and stakeholders. It’s been quite inspiring to see in someone so young.

“But it’s not all just work. Inah and I regularly talk and laugh about volleyball and our other hobbies.” Having an open, trusting and friendly relationship has helped strengthen their mentor and mentee partnership.

Scott encourages graduates to consider Shell for their future career. “Through Shell’s Graduate Programme I have met, worked with and mentored graduates, like Inah, who astound me with their insights, courage, intelligence, honesty, leadership and energy. Indeed, I’ve no doubt one day I could be working for one of them!

“If those qualities sound like you as a graduate. And you are also resilient, open-minded and personable, then I urge you to consider a future with Shell.”

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