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How to become a Transformational Climate-Mentor

Iain Patton

What do you find most challenging about mentoring or coaching in climate leadership or if you have leadership mentoring questions - share your thoughts and experiences below or www.iainpatton.org

 

Yesterday I spoke with mentors volunteering to support young Africans on a thrilling new Climate Career Mentorship Programme.


Becoming a coach or mentor in climate leadership is both a privilege and a responsibility. Guiding someone through the complexities of environmental action not only helps them develop skills and resilience but also sharpens your own sense of purpose. When you begin, remember that trust is the foundation. A safe, open environment, where mentees feel respected and heard, is essential for honest conversations and real progress.


It helps to share your own experiences, including setbacks or doubts, so that mentees see you as a fellow learner, not an unapproachable expert. This openness also encourages them to take calculated risks, be creative, and view mistakes as stepping stones rather than failures. If you encounter resistance or hesitation, try asking gentle, reflective questions. Often, it’s about uncovering deeper motivations or fears.


Remain mindful of the balance between offering guidance and granting independence. Suggest frameworks for decision-making, but resist the urge to dictate outcomes. Empowering mentees to find their own solutions fosters confidence and develops their critical thinking. Remember, they are not you, but unique and have to find their own way. When they face the inevitable dips in motivation—particularly in areas as daunting as climate change—remind them why they started. Recount small successes, highlight the broader impact of their work, and show genuine appreciation for their efforts.



Finally, embrace the fact that mentoring is a two-way street. None of us have got sustainability cracked! You will grow by listening, adapting, and occasionally challenging your own assumptions. A single encouraging word, timely introduction, or practical resource can spark big developments in a mentee’s journey. Your role is to cultivate potential, celebrate progress, and keep both of you aligned with the bigger picture: creating a more sustainable, equitable future for us all.

 

My closing words to the mentors:

“Mentoring in the realm of climate leadership carries both immense responsibility and profound rewards. As new mentors, you’ll be shaping the next generation of environmental change-makers—an opportunity to create lasting, positive impact in a rapidly shifting world. Approach it with empathy, consistency, and a learner’s mindset, and you’ll be amazed at how far both you and your mentees can go together.”

 

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