Interview between a recent MENTOR AND MENTEE UTV Production Producer, Alison Fleming, and Film & Television Production graduate Becky Rowney share their experience. What have you got out MENTEE – BECKY ROWNEY advice to ‘give everything a go’, and of the experience? What did you find most am excited to say that I am now in a This has been a very fulfilling six months, valuable about the experience? trainee role within Radio Ulster. from meeting Becky and helping her When the mentorship began I didn’t What have been some of the source opportunities, giving advice, and have any contacts or any idea how to using the knowledge that I have gained navigate the industry at entry level. highlights of the experience? over the past (almost) 30 years to Being introduced to an incredible The main one for me was that we were assist her in getting a foot on the ladder. individual like Alison who has so able to share the excitement when I It has been a brilliant experience. much experience, knowledge and received the BBC job offer. Another guidance was more than invaluable. high point has to be finally meeting What have been some She helped with everything, from with Alison in person for a coffee of the highlights? checking my CV and job applications, after six months of Zoom meetings! MENTOR – ALISON FLEMING Working with Becky was a highlight to giving me reassurance and in itself, but when she called to let confidence with everything I sent out. What would be your message Why did you sign up me know she’d landed a job with the to anyone thinking of to be a mentor? BBC our whole house was cheering! What has your mentor helped becoming a mentor like Ali? I have been lucky enough to work with I’ve been so invested in ensuring she you learn about yourself/your Having a mentor to help guide you amazing people who were always willing had every available opportunity and career ambitions that you through an extremely competitive to give advice and guidance when I to see all her hard work rewarded was didn’t know before? industry is so unique. I honestly asked. However, when I was starting out an incredible high! Alison helped me grow as a person. don’t think I would be in the in broadcasting I didn’t have anyone to I am now more confident in my position I am today without Alison help me on my chosen path. When the What would you tell someone abilities and have been able to face and this experience. It is my hope opportunity came up, I didn’t hesitate. who was considering signing up? challenges, such as interviews, and that someday I can pass it on by The idea of being able to help Don’t hesitate! Helping someone get overcome them successfully – which mentoring the next generation of someone who, like me, didn’t have any a start in their career is fantastic. was something I found difficult young people looking to begin their contacts in the industry at the start of It’s even better when you get an before. I always aim to follow Alison’s careers within the industry. their career was hugely appealing. amazing mentee like Becky. ITV Social Purpose Impact Report 2023 52