The Heart of Mentoring: How Presence, Trust and Courage Change Lives

Bernard Kates is a writer, speaker, coach, and mentor with a background in organizational development and leadership consulting. After two decades in the corporate world, he went on to serve another two decades in the emergency services, holding a senior leadership position. Across both fields, Bernard has led individuals and communities through the daily realities of business as well as through times of disaster, when lives, homes, businesses, and entire communities were at risk or destroyed by floods and tropical cyclones.

These experiences deeply shaped his understanding of humanistic leadership. He discovered that when people are facing the worst day of their lives, and when coordinating multi-agency emergency responses, leading with presence, trust, and compassion is not just effective, it is essential.

Today, Bernard focuses on supporting individuals and organizations in living and leading more intentionally, authentically, and courageously. He is the author of the From the Heart trilogy: Living from the Heart, Leading from the Heart, and Living, Heart and Soul, which together explore personal growth, humanistic leadership, and the search for meaning and purpose in life.

Session Description:

The Heart of Mentoring: How Presence, Trust and Courage Change Lives

What makes mentoring truly transformational?

In this 60-minute session, Bernard Kates draws on the philosophy behind his From the Heart trilogy to explore the deeper dimensions of mentoring. Focusing on presence, trust, and courage, he invites experienced mentors, coaches, and leaders to reflect on how they show up in their relationships, and how small shifts in being can create a profound impact.

Bernard will speak for approximately 40 minutes, followed by an interactive Q&A and discussion. His goal is to spark meaningful reflection and dialogue around how we mentor, lead, and connect, not to promote his books, but to foster deeper engagement and shared insight.

What Participants Will Gain From the Session

• A deeper understanding of the human qualities that underpin transformational mentoring
  Go beyond tools and frameworks to reconnect with what truly makes a difference.
• Practical insight into the power of presence
  Learn how being fully present can open space for growth, clarity, and connection.
• A renewed perspective on trust in the mentoring relationship
  Explore how to cultivate trust in your mentees, not just from them.
• The courage to stay with discomfort, uncertainty, and silence
  Discover how brave mentoring often means letting go of control.
• A sense of community and shared wisdom
  Engage in thoughtful dialogue with fellow mentors and coaches who care deeply about their craft.