Exeter mentoring scheme gets business backing

An Exeter-based mentoring programme aimed at inspiring and empowering young women has received a welcome financial boost from a local business.

Fowler Financial Planning has donated £500 to the Empowering Girls mentoring programme, which partners women in business with Year 9 girls across 14 schools in Devon. The initiative helps participants broaden their horizons, develop career aspirations, and build confidence.

The donation will fund a confidence workshop later this year, equipping young women with practical tools, expert guidance, and peer support to boost self-esteem and prepare for future opportunities.

Managed by the Devon, Plymouth & Torbay Careers Hub, Empowering Girls is supported by a volunteer advisory panel of mentors and school representatives. The programme relies on donations to provide additional activities that benefit the girls involved.

Rachel Fowler, director of Fowler Financial Planning, recently joined the programme as a mentor and encouraged her firm to explore sponsorship opportunities. Recognising the importance of building resilience and self-belief in young women, she championed the initiative within her company.

Matthew Fowler, also of Fowler Financial Planning, said: “After recently joining the programme as a mentor, Rachel suggested that we support the programme with a donation. With women heavily underrepresented in the financial planning sector, the company is keen to support initiatives that create opportunities for young women to develop confidence and ambition.”

A spokesperson for Empowering Girls expressed gratitude for the donation: “We are incredibly grateful for this generous support, which will enable us to continue delivering impactful workshops that change lives. It’s inspiring to see businesses investing in young women’s futures and recognising the importance of confidence in shaping career pathways.”

This term, Empowering Girls is working with 14 schools across Exeter, East Devon, Torbay, and Plymouth. The programme currently has over 100 active mentors who provide one-on-one guidance to their assigned mentees. To date, more than 600 Year 9 girls have benefited from its support.

Businesses interested in supporting or sponsoring the initiative can find more information here.