How honest conversations and support shaped my journey: My Mentor and Me

Starting strong with the right guidance 

When Sami Hallak joined Sopra Steria in November 2022, he was stepping into a new world. As a Business Analyst and Product Owner ad interim at Fedasil, the learning curve was steep, but he didn’t face it alone. “My first mentor had a huge impact,” Sami shares. “She taught me how to do my job and encouraged me to take initiative. Because of her, I grew quickly and was eventually promoted to high potential.” 

That early support laid the foundation for everything that followed. 

A mentorship built on trust 

Today, Sami works with a new mentor, and the relationship is just as meaningful. “We meet monthly for one-on-one sessions. Sometimes we just talk, but most of the time we focus on my development or challenges at work,” he explains. There’s no rigid structure, just open, honest dialogue. 

What makes it work? “The trust was there from the beginning. My mentor is down to earth and genuinely helps when I need it.” 

Navigating tough conversations together 

Not every moment has been easy. Sami recalls a time when he disagreed with management expectations. “It was a sensitive topic, but I decided to speak up. I shared my concerns with my mentor, and he completely agreed and thanked me for being honest.” That conversation later resonated with other colleagues, showing that mentorship can be a safe space for difficult but necessary discussions. 

Advice for future mentors and mentees 

Sami is clear about what makes mentorship meaningful. “Don’t be a mentor unless you’re fully committed,” he says. “I’ve heard stories from colleagues who felt unsupported because their mentors weren’t invested. It’s a demanding role, especially when you’re juggling projects and multiple mentees.” 

More than guidance, it’s growth 

While Sami doesn’t point to one single moment of success, his story is a testament to what mentorship can be when it’s done right: