The Funmi Babington-Ashaye Foundation (FBA) hosted an engaging mentoring session themed “Navigating Office Politics and Mentoring in the Workplace,” featuring Coach Lola Adeleye @Coach Lola as the guest speaker.

The session explored practical strategies for navigating workplace dynamics across different stages of a career, with a particular focus on understanding organisational culture, building strategic relationships, maintaining professional visibility, and advancing one’s career with integrity.

Coach Lola highlighted the importance of learning to read the room when entering a new organisation—understanding workplace expectations, identifying key influencers and top performers, and becoming familiar with organisational processes and etiquette. She also encouraged participants to document their achievements, relationships, skills, and professional growth through a career dossier that can serve as a valuable record throughout their careers.

A key part of the session was the distinction between mentors and sponsors. While mentors provide guidance, perspective, and support based on their experience, sponsors actively advocate for an individual’s career progression and create opportunities for advancement. Participants were encouraged to intentionally build professional relationships across departments and embrace the principles of consistency, connection, and collaboration.

The interactive session also provided an opportunity for participants to share real-life workplace experiences, including challenges around organisational changes, gender-related barriers, recognition, and career progression. Coach Lola emphasised that while office politics cannot always be avoided, professionals can learn to navigate workplace dynamics ethically without compromising their values, integrity, or faith.

The session concluded with a reflective Q&A, where participants explored issues including navigating difficult work environments, building effective mentor-sponsor relationships, and taking ownership of their career development.

Key takeaway: Career growth is not only about working hard; it also requires self-awareness, strategic relationships, visibility, continuous learning, mentorship, sponsorship, and the courage to take intentional steps toward professional growth.