Bachelor of Computer Science student and 6reen Project Leader Abdulla Safar presenting to mentors and fellow mentees during the programme’s third year Camp of Leaders Meet & Pitch session at Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus.
Industry leaders bring a wealth of experience and insight, offering invaluable perspectives that go beyond textbooks and lectures.
As role models and mentors, they inspire students to aim higher and provide the tools needed to overcome challenges.
Young entrepreneurs and social project leaders, guided by seasoned professionals, are better prepared to make significant contributions to their communities and the global economy.
By fostering a culture of mentorship, a ripple effect is created that positively impacts everyone involved.
AirAsia Move chief executive officer Nadia Omer highlights the importance of attitude, aptitude, and the ability to take risks as essential qualities for the next generation of leaders.
“Attitude involves having a solid foundation built on integrity, doing the difficult right, positivity, and making things happen.
“Aptitude is about choosing to do things we are truly passionate about, brimming with ideas, and continuously improving and building our expertise.
“Taking risks means being a trailblazer, going off the beaten path, and making every move count,” she elaborates.
Bridging the gap between theory and practice
For young minds, the path to success is increasingly complex and competitive. The journey can be daunting without the right guidance and support.
B&B Labs chief executive officer and co-founder Julius Lim engaging with his student mentees during their business project mentoring session (left) while Etika Group of Companies chief executive officer Santharuban Thurai Sundaram interacts with his student mentee during the Meet & Pitch session.
Mentorship play a crucial role in bridging academic learning and real-world experience, offering a transformative journey that empowers individuals to reach their full potential.
Recognising the significance of having a mentor for its graduates, Taylor’s University introduced the Camp of Leaders programme.
This dynamic six-month mentorship programme connects students and their startup ideas with industry leaders.
Leveraging the knowledge and experiences of industry leaders, the programme develops soft skills essential for building a business.
As such, students are able to drive innovation in impactful business and social projects, making positive contributions to their community and enhancing quality of life.
Getting industry experts
Aligned with Malaysia’s vision to advance from a production-based economy to a knowledge-intensive one, Camp of Leaders empowers youths to be game-changers for the future, contributing to the nation’s progress through education.
Now in its third year, the initiative connects mentees with experienced leaders in various industries, including Nadia, Entomal Biotech Sdn Bhd chief commercial officer and co-founder Yanni Xinyan Ching, B&B Labs chief executive officer and co-founder Julius Lim, Tanamera Tropicana Spa Sdn Bhd founder Mohamad Faisal Ahmad Fadzil, and Domaine Architects Sdn Bhd director Norashidah Wahab.
While Etika Group of Companies chief executive officer Santharuban Thurai Sundaram interacts with his student mentee during the Meet & Pitch session.
Returning mentors include Etika Group of Companies chief executive officer Santharuban Thurai Sundaram, Komuniti Tukang Jahit chief executive officer and co-founder Yap Sue Yii, and The Walt Disney Company director and head of business development (games) for Asia Pacific, Middle East and North Africa Je Alipio.
The impact of mentorship
This season’s Camp of Leaders will feature inventive projects by ambitious Taylor’s University students aiming to innovate their respective industries.
Projects include Durian-Tex, the upcycling of Durian husk waste into eco-friendly fabric; Bizzy B, a gamified travel tech application; Chicgo, a vegan ice-cream; Morshedcare, organic oil for scalp health; Aquaglow, microcapsule gel-beads for sustainability in skincare products; Bugkwa, a sustainable by-product of black soldier fly larvae protein; 6reen, an eco-conscious gateway application; Bioinspired 3DCP for structural integrity; and Taskaway, an application connecting locals to trusted service exchange for skill-based earning.
Reflecting on her experience as a first-time mentor, Nadia shared, “I am truly touched by the passion and creativity of these young mentees who want to make a difference.
“Their energy is contagious and gives hope for a better future. I see how eager they are to connect with professionals to learn more and learn faster.
“Throughout my journey, I have gained a lot from strong mentors — teachers, leaders, and those who helped me grow and achieve things I did not think I could.
“Now, it is my turn to pay it forward by mentoring these students while also learning from them,” Nadia said.
She added that this mentorship opportunity will help her understand today’s youth better.
AirAsia Move chief executive officer Nadia Omer is impressed by the passion and creativity of the young mentees who want to make a difference.
With a deeper understanding of their motivations and interests, “I believe I can channel this knowledge to build AirAsia Move into a more youth-centric travel experience,” she said.
Nadia is the 6reen project mentor, and has been instrumental in the team’s progress.
Holistic educational approach
At the heart of Taylor’s education lies Taylor’sphere, an ecosystem that blends pedagogical practices to deliver education excellence and meaningful experiences, aligned with the evolving education landscape.
The ecosystem nurtures students’ intellect, creativity, and practical wisdom, encouraging them to explore their passions, collaborate with peers and industry, and develop skills beyond the classroom.
The Camp of Leaders emerged from this ecosystem, offering a unique blend of mentorship, networking, and practical experience. By connecting students with industry leaders, the institution bridges the gap between academic theory and practical application, preparing graduates to emerge as innovators and leaders of tomorrow.
