Stella Lukman: Lifelong learning from mentee to mentor
UBC Land and Food Systems (LFS) grad Stella Lukman (BSc’10) built her career in the food and beverage industry with support from her university community.
Now a food safety and quality specialist with the BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food, she got her start after a UBC professor recommended her for her first role. Today, she focuses on inspection reports, policy development, and industry guidance—drawing upon both industry and government perspectives.
Volunteer work has also been pivotal in her professional journey. Starting in her second undergraduate year, she spent four years as a mentee and has been giving back as a mentor since 2021. She adapts her approach to each mentee’s needs, from offering guidance on course selection and networking to introducing them to her team at her workplace.
Reflecting on her experiences, Lukman explains how she has benefitted from volunteering and why she continues to participate in the LFS Mentorship Program, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.
Having first been a mentee, what inspired you to become a mentor?
When I was a mentee, I was more timid and hesitant to reach out to professional mentors, even though they were welcoming and down-to-earth. Many mentees face similar challenges, and I wanted to become a mentor to provide support and guidance so they can be more confident and assertive in reaching out to professionals in their careers.
Can you share a memorable or meaningful experience you had while mentoring?
I have received thank-you letters from my mentees, and I am grateful to have made a difference in their lives through mentoring. Over the years, some have graduated and stayed in touch, and I enjoy watching their careers grow. These experiences motivate me to continue mentoring, knowing that my guidance contributes to their success.
One example that stands out is a mentee who was hesitant about joining a co-op program. She came to me for advice, and I encouraged her to go for it—it remains one of my biggest regrets that I didn’t pursue co-op during my own university years. I guided her in strengthening her résumé and preparing for interview questions. Later, she shared that she had joined the program and was genuinely enjoying the experience, which was incredibly rewarding to hear.
How has volunteering as a mentor influenced you professionally or personally?
Volunteering as a mentor has been a mutually enriching experience that has shaped me both professionally and personally. Professionally, it has challenged me to continually refine my communication, coaching, and leadership skills as I strive to provide thoughtful and effective guidance tailored to each mentee’s needs.
On a personal level, mentoring has broadened my perspective by exposing me to new ways of thinking, including greater openness to non-linear career paths and innovative approaches to problem-solving. It has also encouraged me to stay current with emerging trends, such as evolving job search strategies and the use of AI. Additionally, receiving feedback from my mentees has strengthened my ability to reflect on and improve my own approach, reinforcing a mindset of continuous learning.
What would you say to alumni who are considering becoming mentors?
I highly recommend becoming a mentor. It is a rewarding experience that does not take much time, and it allows you to make a meaningful impact by sharing your expertise and supporting the next generation.