Jennifer Hare (CEO of Manage Money Wales C.I.C.), told us about the power that mentorship can have.

“I am an accountant by profession and have worked in the third sector in RCT, specifically finance, for the past 15 years. In 2015, I founded a Community Interest Company, which has been a journey of learning through the years. Success has come from the invaluable help of Interlink RCT and more experienced peers who have guided me. 

Around two years ago, I began my peer mentoring journey with Interlink RCT. Since then, I’ve mentored five groups in areas such as setting up social enterprises, financial systems, compliance, business planning, grant applications, and marketing and publicity. 

My most recent group was a Dementia Friendly Group that holds sessions at Gatholwg Community Centre for people with dementia and their friends and families. They organise pottery group sessions where participants create art while chatting over a cup of tea. 

They required support in creating financial systems and applying for grants. We set up budgets and forecasts to determine how much they needed to break even for the year. Once we had that figure, we researched available grants and applied for one, with coaching support from myself through the application process. 

It was incredibly rewarding to see their hard work pay off when they secured the grant during our final meeting. It had come round full circle. Witnessing their joy, gave me a profound sense of accomplishment. They not only achieved their financial goals but also gained confidence in managing their finances and securing future funding. 

Being a peer mentor has allowed me to see first hand the positive impact that guidance and support can have on individuals and communities. Each group I’ve mentored has taught me something new and enriched my own experience.  

As I look ahead, I’m excited to continue this journey, helping more groups reach their potential and make a difference in their communities. The power of mentorship lies in its ability to create ripples of positive change, and I’m honoured to be a part of that process.“