Q & A with Lily Cheng, founder of The Rising Network, as National Mentoring Month comes to a close

As National Mentoring Month comes to a close, it’s important to take a moment to remember that mentoring should be for life, not just a fad for January.

We spoke to The Rising Network’s founder, Lily Cheng, about the need for supportive networks, mentoring and finding fulfilment in your life.

Tell us how The Rising Network started

The idea had been brewing long before I even considered founding a supportive network for women, one that centred around wellness, career inspiration, and inclusion. Growing up in the 80s and 90s in Cambridge was challenging. As a British-born Chinese from a family who immigrated here in the early 80s, I experienced numerous incidents of racism and bullying simply because of my appearance. I looked different. Witnessing discrimination and racism towards my family frequently in the 90s impacted my confidence, and I never felt like I fit in or understood. My parents always taught me and my sisters to work hard, be diligent, and get an education, understanding that this would offer freedom and choice. So, that's exactly what I did.

Post-university, much like many others, I plunged into a job I felt compelled to pursue, oblivious to the toll it would have on my well-being. I felt torn. I am creative at heart but equally wanted to work in business. But what? And what would combine the two to allow me to be creative but to apply that in the business context? The endless cycle of trying to figure it out in my early 20's, comparing myself to others, overwork, and neglecting self-care left me adrift, merely existing rather than truly living.

A pivotal moment in my career occurred back in 2011, during my time in the tech industry. I was able to apply my creativity in the business world, and I felt like I had hit the jackpot. Working in marketing within this dynamic field that allowed me to be creative, fuelled by innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, was incredibly invigorating. It provided me with a gateway into a world of endless possibilities. However, amidst this excitement, each meeting or networking event I attended felt overwhelmingly dominated by a sea of white men. While I was warmly welcomed into this industry, this disparity intensified my sense of not quite fitting in. The absence of female role models only exacerbated these feelings, prompting me to question why there was such a glaring lack of diversity in tech.

During this period, I also found myself confronting workplace bullying, which starkly revealed the toxicity festering within the workplace. It mirrored the dynamics of a high school clique, fostering an atmosphere rife with exclusion and hostility. It reminded me of the terrible experiences I had faced as a child with bullying and racism. However, this experience deepened my curiosity and appetite to understand workplace culture, equality, diversity and inclusion, and how to create an environment where everyone could thrive.

Yearning for a supportive community of women who empathised with the unique challenges I faced, I sought solace and guidance by connecting with a supportive network outside of my workplace.

I envisaged a space where women could evolve, striving to become the best versions of themselves without fear of judgment. A space where authenticity was not just embraced but celebrated—a haven where women could truly thrive. It became more than just a personal pursuit; it became a quest to learn about fostering inclusivity in both communities and workplaces, with the hope of sparking positive change. 

How did that lead you to start the Rising Network?

In 2012, I reached a major crossroads in both my personal and work life. I embarked on a journey of self-discovery to reconnect with myself, my purpose, and my passions. It was a pivotal moment that ultimately led me to establish The Rising Network.

During this period of self-discovery, I realised the importance of prioritising self-care and having purpose. My career and life choices felt hollow without a sense of purpose, and I knew I couldn't be the best version of myself without nurturing my own well-being. This realisation echoed the struggles I had faced earlier in my career - burnout, a sense of not belonging, and the toxic environment of workplace bullying.

Reflecting on those experiences, I understood the significance of creating a supportive community for women like me—a community where individuals could prioritise self-care, tackle workplace challenges, and thrive in their chosen paths. It was on a cold winter's day in December 2012, just before New Year's Eve, that I chose to make a change. It felt exhilarating; I had purpose, and passion, and was fueled with energy to make a difference because I needed it. And if I needed it, there must be others who needed it too. I couldn't be alone in this.

Since its inception, The Rising Network has provided me with a sense of belonging within a community where everyone is encouraged to thrive in the life they choose. Where our unique stories, experiences and backgrounds are celebrated and understood. It's been a journey of growth, resilience, and empowerment, and I've never looked back

What is it about The Rising Network that makes it so powerful?

The overarching aim for the Network is to empower women to reach their potential, and to achieve happiness and balance in all areas of life. 

Its strength lies in the community – it’s supportive and full of women who want each and every person to succeed.  They are generous with their time, praise, support and expertise; they lift each other up.

When I came to that life crossroads, that was exactly what I needed, but in 2011, it just didn’t exist.  I feel proud to have built a space in which the Lily of 10 years ago would have thrived!

Do you have a favourite part of The Rising Network programme of events?

One of my favourite parts of the programme is the mentoring opportunities on offer.  These really embody my vision for the Network when I set it up, as you have women with different life experiences offering each other supportive advice and self-development coaching.  The Rising Network is so far away from a traditional networking or professional mentoring organisation – we have fun, we look at life in the round, we think about you as a person as well as you in your career.

And mentoring feels more important than ever, because of COVID.  People – especially women – are being put under so much additional stress.  Having the support of a knowledgeable network to coach you through those challenges is essential.

At the Rising Festival, we’ve included mentoring circles on the issues most relevant to women at the moment – self-care for anxiety, using your support system, and how to maintain work-life balance.  We’ve heard from our members that this is exactly what is needed.

I’m so conscious that The Rising Festival isn’t until March which is why we’ve put on an additional two sessions of mentoring; Building your Personal Brand and How to Juggle Work and Family during COVID-19,  at the beginning of February to help women right now.

So what are your top tips for learning to thrive in your life?

• Prioritise self-care: Just like the advice on aeroplanes to put on your own oxygen mask first, you can't support others unless you've taken care of yourself.

• Practice self-reflection: Take the time to look inward and understand who you are. Self-reflection is crucial for gaining clarity, direction, and purpose.

• Take action: Commitment and action are where the magic happens. Don't hesitate to take the first step towards your goals.

• Pursue your passion: Follow your dreams and immerse yourself in what you love. Learn from the world's most successful people and channel their dedication.

• Give yourself permission to pause: Self-care means allowing yourself to take breaks and recharge. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle of life, so make it a habit to step back and reevaluate.

• Find a mentor: Having a trusted mentor can provide invaluable guidance and support. Whether through formal coaching or informal mentorship circles like ours, seek out someone who inspires you and can help navigate challenges and celebrate successes.