For me, mentoring is about giving back. I know that throughout my career I have met people who have mentored and supported me, who have provided me support and advice when I needed it. I am very grateful for that and so, in the past 3 years have felt that I should support others in a positive way. I love mentoring with the Sam Buah Foundation, my mentees have all been fabulous and I love catching up with them and also providing them some insights to help them on their way in their chosen careers. Would I recommend it, absolutely and without hesitation.

The Foundation has been amazing at opening my eyes to the world of project management. We began by exploring the theoretical foundations—learning key principles, project lifecycles, and frameworks—which gave me a solid understanding of how project management works in practice.
This was further reinforced through workshops and talks with Sam, where we had the chance to deepen our understanding and see how the theory applies in real-world settings.

One of the most valuable parts of the programme was the opportunity to lead a group project. This hands-on experience allowed us to put theory into practice and develop our skills in a supportive, team-based environment.

Alongside all of this, we had 2 mentors given to us each – my mentors were aligned to my skillset of architecture and construction. They both helped me understand project management and how it can fit into my field rather than generally, which helped me see a path for project management in my career.

Sam has been amazing in terms of teaching us, giving us the space to learn without being too pushy or too lenient. I’m truly grateful for the experience and everything I’ve learned through the Foundation.

As a mentor with the Sam Buah Foundation, I have the pleasure of guiding and supporting young individuals as they navigate their personal and professional journeys. Mentoring is not just about sharing knowledge; it’s about empowering others to recognise their potential. When I moved to the UK, I was fortunate to have mentors who believed in me, guided me and helped me see possibilities I hadn’t imagined. Their support was instrumental in shaping the path I walk today.

I want to give back and empower others. By volunteering as a mentor, you can make a tangible difference in someone’s career by fostering growth, confidence and opportunity. I encourage you to become a mentor and contribute to building a more supportive society.

I have really enjoyed being a mentor on the Sam Buah Foundation mentoring scheme. It has been a fulfilling experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a wonderful initiative. Through this experience, I have had the chance to make a positive impact on the life of another young person and develop a meaningful connection through regular meetings, which has been incredibly rewarding.

It has helped me develop my skills in communication, understanding different perspectives, and listening. All these valuable skills are helping me develop in my career as an Architect. Additionally, being part of this scheme has allowed me to witness firsthand the growth and development of the mentee, which has been truly inspiring. I look forward to continuing my involvement with the Sam Buah Foundation and contributing to the growth of future mentees.

Participating in the Sam Buah Foundation Project Management Mentoring Programme has been transformative. Through structured training offered by the Foundation, I passed my APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) exam on my first try. The programme paired me with experienced mentors who offered invaluable support and insights. A highlight was coordinating a live project, where I had the opportunity to apply some of the theoretical project management knowledge in a real-world setting.

Sam Buah’s personal involvement made a significant impact, boosting my confidence and abilities. Thanks to this mentorship programme, I secured my first role as a project manager. I highly recommend the Sam Buah Foundation for its mentorship, practical experience, and solid foundation for a career in project management.

Sam is a great mentor who is always willing to help and lift his mentees whenever they need him.
Coming in to Manchester for my Masters degree and not knowing anyone in the city, he showed me the essentials and constantly went the extra mile to ensure I was settled both in school and in my accommodation.

Sam has a great passion for mentoring, supporting and helping others further develop themselves. He has inspired and mentored countless others who have gone onto to become leaders in other industries.

Mr. Sam Buah is a kind-hearted gentleman who has an excellent track record of enormous contribution and selfless sacrifices towards developing young people, especially those from the black and minority ethnic groups. I am confident that the ‘Sam Buah Foundaton’ will change many lives and provide a consummate platform for educational and career success stories for black and ethnic minority communities in the United Kingdom and globally.

I was privileged to have the opportunity of a work experience scheme at the Engineering Services department of Manchester Airport Group under the mentorship of Sam through whom I also acquired that opportunity. During this time, I gained much knowledge and insight into the dynamics of a professional work environment. The work experience equipped me with the technical and interpersonal skills needed to advance in my career.

Between September 2009 to October 2010, I had an opportunity to attend school at Manchester Metropolitan University. There, I was introduced to Sam Buah and his wife. They selflessly mentored me and practically welcomed me into their family. When I needed some coaching, they were almost always available and would always open their home to me. For this life-changing experience with Sam and his wife, I am thankful. Thirteen years later, while we live miles apart, we still share a very special bond.