Our first Whiteley Association event of 2026 took place on Friday 30th January at Sirocco at The Royal Yacht, where members gathered for an insightful lunchtime session focused on the theme of mentoring.
Building on last year’s successful initiative—where we invited younger professionals and explored future career paths—this event continued the conversation around how structured mentoring can support women at different stages of their careers.
We were delighted to welcome Maria O’Regan from Santander UK, who shared an overview of the opportunities available through the Santander Women Business Leader’s Mentoring Programme. The scheme offers valuable guidance, development and connection for women looking to progress within their professional fields. Open to both Mentors and Mentees, this year’s program is being launched on Monday 2nd February and successful mentors and mentees will join the program from April through to November.
As part of the session, two of our own members, Rosie Whooley and Siobhan O’Sullivan, reflected on their experiences as part of last year’s cohort as mentee and mentor. Their stories highlighted the confidence, perspective and long‑lasting relationships that can be built through taking part.
Members then enjoyed a lovely lunch followed by networking. The raffle was kindly sponsored by Santander and the winning flower raffle ticket was pulled by Kirsty Lamond of Santander, raising £600 for our chosen charity Tiny Seeds.
To read more about the program and submit your application either as mentee or mentor, please find link below, if you have any issues with the application process please do let us know and we will help assist:
whiteley.org.je 