Mentoring & Transition (M&T) Program 2026

The 2026 Mentoring & Transition (M&T) Program marked the fourth successful year of collaboration between The Palladians Association and the Melbourne High School Green, Maroon & Black Patrons’ Club (GM&B). Over the past four years, the program has grown into a highly regarded alumni initiative that supports Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School and Melbourne High School alumni as they navigate tertiary education, early career development, and professional life.

This year, we saw increased participation from both recent school leavers and experienced industry professionals. In response to participant feedback, the committee refined the program structure and content to deliver greater value and encourage broader engagement. While MacRob and MHS alumni often excelled in VCE, many are also learning how to balance career ambitions with the realities and responsibilities of everyday life. The M&T Program aims to provide practical insights, meaningful connections, and professional development opportunities in a safe and welcoming environment.

The program operates through a semi-structured mentoring network for alumni, excluding current school students. In 2026, participants were allocated to mentoring groups based on residential location, with each group led by an anchor who facilitated regular catch-ups throughout the year. In addition, the program featured four interactive sessions that combined panel discussions with networking opportunities in a relaxed and informal setting. Attendance has remained strong, with approximately 40 to 50 participants attending each session.

Session One: Being Good at Your Job Isn’t Good Enough and Why Opportunities Pass You By (And What You Should Do About It)

Christopher Kong (MHS 1998)
Hosted by Aravind Thiagarajah

Chris explored the importance of authentic professional relationships and demonstrated how networking extends far beyond collecting business cards. Key themes included building genuine connections, creating opportunities through networks, maintaining long-term professional relationships, developing a personal brand, and leveraging alumni networks.

Participants particularly valued Chris’s practical advice and relatable experience, which highlighted how meaningful relationships often play a greater role in career success rather than transactional interactions.

Session Two: Developing EQ to Match IQ

Dr Sophia Richardson (Mac.Rob 1995) and Dr Seb Belfrage-Maher (MHS 2003)
Hosted by Karthik Murali

Sophia and Seb examined emotional intelligence as one of the defining characteristics of successful professionals and leaders. Drawing on their experiences in healthcare, they discussed the importance of trust, empathy, resilience, and effective communication, particularly during moments of vulnerability.

The panel offered valuable reflections on human connections and emotional awareness, demonstrating how these capabilities contribute not only to success in medicine but also across a wide range of professions.

Session Three: Financial Savvy – Investing for Success

Alastair Galloway (MHS 1993) and Torsten Kasper (MHS 1987)
Hosted by Wayne Chow

Recognised leaders in the investment industry, Alastair and Torsten shared practical insights into long-term wealth creation, maximising earning potential, and investing surplus income for future growth.

One of the most popular sessions of the year, the discussion challenged participants to rethink traditional views on money, success, and financial planning. Rather than promoting investment products, both presenters openly discussed their personal financial journeys, including lessons learned from both successes and mistakes.

Topics included:

  • Property versus share investments
  • Building wealth amid current cost-of-living pressures
  • Superannuation strategies
  • Financial decision-making at different life stages
  • Developing a long-term investment mindset

The candid and balanced discussion was well received by the participants and encouraged thoughtful reflection on financial wellbeing.

Session Four: Design Your Life

Dr Damian Powell and Dechlan Ellis (MHS 1985)
Hosted by Deniz Atakan

Damian and Dechlan, long-time friends from the same train line and highly respected alumni from the same graduating class, shared reflections on career, identity, purpose, and personal growth. Their discussion explored the many decisions that shape their lives and challenged participants to think more deliberately about defining success and life fulfilment.

The panel discussion was philosophical, thought-provoking, and deeply engaging. Attendees had an opportunity to reflect on how to live life with a mantra and what it means to create a meaningful life beyond professional achievement.

Looking Ahead in 2027

As the program enters its fifth year, the committee remains committed to strengthening collaboration between Melbourne High School, Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School, The Palladians Association, and the GM&B Patrons’ Club.

The program will continue to evolve in response to the needs of younger alumni while maintaining its focus on meaningful connection, mentorship, and professional development.

Key priorities for 2027 include:

  • Strengthening engagement with recent school leavers and tertiary students while demonstrating the value of ongoing alumni involvement.
  • Expanding structured mentoring opportunities, possibly across a broader range of industries and career pathways.
  • Providing opportunities for alumni networking and connection.
  • Introducing more interactive workshops and small-group discussions.
  • Developing measures to evaluate participant outcomes and program impact.
  • Continuing to attract exceptional alumni presenters from diverse professions and backgrounds.

Acknowledgements

The success of the M&T Program would not be possible without the generosity of our presenters, who volunteered their time, expertise, and lived experience. We sincerely thank our 2026 speakers:

  • Christopher Kong
  • Dr Sophia Richardson
  • Dr Seb Belfrage-Maher
  • Alastair Galloway
  • Torsten Kasper
  • Damian Powell
  • Dechlan Ellis

We also acknowledge the ongoing support of:

  • Dr Tony Mordini
  • Jellis Craig Port Phillip
  • The Palladians Association
  • Green, Maroon & Black Patrons’ Club
  • The Unicorn Club – Grace, Ted and Soph

Finally, I personally extend my gratitude to the dedicated M&T Committee members who make this program possible: Ritu, Aravind, Deniz, Karthik and Louisa

Final Reflections

The Mentoring & Transition Program continues to showcase the strength and affiliation of the MacRob and MHS alumni communities. Through the willingness of experienced alumni to invest in those who follow, the program creates many opportunities for personal growth and lifelong connections. As it enters its fifth year, the program remains dedicated to ensuring future generations of Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School and Melbourne High School alumni are not only well-equipped for successful careers, but for meaningful and fulfilling lives.

Honour The Work
Wayne Chow