Reflections on Speed Mentoring

Serving as the music countdown lead for our speed mentoring program was unexpectedly complex but FUN. Finding songs that matched each theme while sustaining energy wasn’t easy. We initially considered playing music throughout, but pivoted after thoughtful feedback during our planning meeting. Candid input from our committee, including Wade Yamazaki and Shirley Fung from ADAPT.legal, made all the difference. Their perspectives helped us refine the experience.

— Ashley Cheung, Principal & Founder, Virtual Patent Gateway

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Facilitating a discussion on leadership was a really rewarding experience. I asked everyone to share one word they associate with great leadership and one habit they would like to adopt, which sparked thoughtful and engaging conversations. One of the most valuable parts for me was not just guiding the discussion but also being able to participate and gain advice from others. It made the experience feel collaborative and meaningful, and I found it especially beneficial to both facilitate and learn alongside the group.

— Kyla Butler, Senior Patent Counsel, Unified Patents, LLC

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I had a wonderful experience facilitating a table on collaboration. Everyone had thoughtful advice on how to add value to teams, drawing from their experiences as business owners, law firm associates, PTAB judges, and so many other positions. It was a good reminder that teams and environments can vary widely, but that strong collaboration anywhere is still usually based on the same foundations: respect, clear communication, a willingness to volunteer and take action.

— So Ra Ko Associate, Mayer Brown LLP

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Facilitating a table at Guiding Success: Building Intergeneration Leaders on March 17th was truly a highlight. Surrounded by accomplished women in IP, I had the privilege of guiding rich conversations around career growth, mentorship, and leadership. The energy in the room was electric, from Ashley Cheung's engaging podcast recording to the Speed Mentoring sessions that sparked genuine connection. Events like this remind me why community and investing in the next generation matter so deeply.

— Jessica Broyles, VP of IP Services & Solutions, UnitedLex

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Serving as a co-facilitator for the speed mentoring session was all around a rewarding and joyful experience. Far from just telling attendees where to go, what to do, and when, I found myself making new connections, catching up with mentors, and having a good time while learning from incredible women.

— Marcelle "Dina" Zita, Groombridge, Wu, Baughman & Stone, LLP