EY Mentorship Opening Ceremony 2025

The EY Mentorship Programme kicked off last week with an engaging icebreaker session, designed to bring mentees together in small groups to foster camaraderie and set the stage for meaningful conversations. This interactive activity encouraged participants to get to know one another before meeting the experienced mentors who would be sharing their insights.

Meet the Mentors: Diverse Experiences, Valuable Insights

Following the icebreaker, the mentors introduced themselves, representing diverse backgrounds across various sectors of the industry. Among them were Vikram Talwar (Director, Strategy and Transactions – Lead Advisory), Sharon Lee (Senior Manager, Business Consulting – Supply Chain and Operations), Pei Zhi Lin (Manager, Business Consulting – Finance), Emma Wong (Strategy and Transactions - Valuation, Modelling and Economics ), Mohamed Hanifa (Associate Director - Financial Accounting Advisory Services), Wei Jing Tan (Manager - Transaction Strategics, Transfer Pricing), Ping Yee Tan (Manager - Global Compliance and Reporting) and Keng Ling Lai (Manager, Assurance – Forensic and Integrity Services). Their wealth of experience provided mentees with a broad perspective on different career paths, equipping them with valuable insights into the professional world.

Vikram encouraged students to be confident and to always ask questions. He shared how much he enjoys his job and stressed the importance of believing in oneself. Sharon Lee reflected on her past experiences in the FMCG industry and how they helped her gain industry awareness, which ultimately benefited her current role. She emphasised the importance of asking smart questions and discussed how her work involves collaborating with clients all around the globe. Emma Wong spoke about applying economic theories to help clients solve business problems, while Keng Ling Lai shared her experiences in forensic assurance, explaining how her team steps in to investigate fraud cases, gather evidence, and even conduct interrogations. Lastly, Wei Jing Tan discussed how he assists clients in structuring their businesses in the most tax-efficient manner.

Speed Networking: Gaining Industry Insights in Real Time

One of the key highlights of the evening was the speed networking session, where mentors rotated between tables, spending 10 minutes at each stop to answer questions and engage in discussions. This dynamic format allowed mentees to gain firsthand knowledge about different career trajectories, industry trends, and the essential skills required for success. Whether it was advice on professional growth, industry challenges, or personal career experiences, each interaction provided mentees with actionable takeaways.

Building Connections Over Dinner

After an enriching networking session, attendees enjoyed a networking dinner, where they had the chance to continue conversations in a more informal setting. This provided a great opportunity for mentees to deepen connections with mentors and peers while exchanging thoughts on their aspirations. 

A Glimpse Into EY: Office Tour Experience

The evening concluded with an exclusive office tour of EY, giving mentees a glimpse into the firm’s dynamic work environment. Walking through the space, they gained a deeper appreciation for EY’s culture and the collaborative nature of its teams.

Final Takeaways for Future Professionals

The EY Mentorship Programme proved to be an invaluable experience for mentees, offering a platform to connect with industry professionals, seek career guidance, and build meaningful relationships. From the importance of confidence and strategic thinking to the value of asking insightful questions, the session left attendees with practical knowledge and inspiration. It was an evening filled with learning, networking, and motivation. A huge thank you to the mentors for their time and invaluable insights. 

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Written by:

Aina

Strategic Content