Give to Gain: How mentorship and support help women thrive at work
International Women’s Day provides an opportunity to reflect on how progress happens in careers and organisations.
Progress is built through everyday actions: mentoring a colleague, encouraging someone to speak up in a meeting or supporting someone to take on new responsibilities.
This year’s theme, Give to Gain, recognises that progress is rarely one directional. When people invest time, support and experience in others, they often strengthen their own leadership skills, build stronger teams and contribute to a more supportive workplace culture.
To mark International Women’s Day, colleagues from across Langham Hall’s global offices share their reflections on what they have given in their careers so far and how those actions can help women thrive.
Below are their reflections:
Jersey
“There is no greater pleasure in life than watching a colleague you have coached and mentored step into their own light. It's seeing someone realise they had the key in their pocket all along. Mentoring colleagues is deeply rewarding for me as it's about unlocking an independence, not just building their skills but building their belief. And belief changes everything.” – Nicki Yates, Senior Client Director, Jersey
United States
"So far in my career, what I have given most intentionally, is leadership through mentorship, and a commitment to building strong relationships within teams. Given the spotlight on International Women’s Day, it's important for me to share my experience as a mother and bring a personal touch to the firm. This results in a strong team, improves culture and allows us to better serve our clients. Ultimately, I see my career not just as a professional advancement, but to strengthen both the business and the people within it.” – JingJing Li, Manager, US
London
"One of the most meaningful things I have been given in my career so far is seeing Rachel, our head of UK fund administration, truly own her authority in a male dominated industry. Seeing a woman lead with such confidence has told me that leadership is not about title, it is about presence. And it has inspired me to believe that I, too, can lead boldly and hopefully continue to empower other women, as I progress in my career.” – Christie Sawyerr, Depositary Associate, London
Guernsey
"In my career at Langham Hall, I have many opportunities to help women thrive in the business. One of the key opportunities I have had more recently is being a mentor to multiple staff members. This has included working on their strengths and areas of development to help build their confidence, as well as allow them to grow on their aspirations for the business and the future.” – Emma-Louise Sarre, Associate Director, Guernsey
Luxembourg
“In my career so far, one of the most important things I have given is support and encouragement. I have had to create space for women to speak, to take opportunities, and to believe in their abilities, encourage their ideas, and celebrate their achievements, to help them grow with confidence. When you give support to a woman, you do not only help them, but you create a strong workplace for everyone.” – Sotiria Kampyli, Director, Head of Real Estate, Luxembourg



