The Power of Mentorship: Gillian Anderson in conversation with Michelle Potter
The founders of SAYes mentoring, Michelle Potter and Gillian Anderson, discuss the impact of their organisation, mentoring under-served young people around the world.
Speakers
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Michelle PotterFounder and Executive DirectorMichelle Potter
Founder and Executive Director
Michelle Potter is the Founder and Executive Director of SAYes Mentoring. While working as a football coach in Cape Town, Michelle witnessed first-hand the gap that existed when consistent, structured support was absent. She returned to the UK to study Education with Human Rights and Philosophy at the University of Roehampton, graduating with a BA (Hons) in 2007. Her dissertation on children in care in South Africa and the UK was awarded the Froebel Guild Award in 2008, the same year she moved to Cape Town and founded SAYes. In 2024, Michelle received the Chancellor’s Alumni Award for Innovation and Inspiration from the University of Roehampton for the work she has achieved with SAYes.
Michelle continues leading the organisation, dividing her time between the UK and South Africa and remains a passionate advocate for structured mentorship, youth development and social change. -
Gillian AndersonAward-winning Actress, Author, Entrepreneur and Co-Founder of SAYes MentoringGillian Anderson
Award-winning Actress, Author, Entrepreneur and Co-Founder of SAYes Mentoring
Gillian Anderson is an award-winning actress, author, entrepreneur, and advocate whose celebrated career spans film, television, and stage. Best known for her iconic roles in The X-Files, The Crown, and Sex Education, she is also the founder of G Ology. Alongside her creative and entrepreneurial work, Gillian has dedicated herself to championing young people, mental health, and women’s empowerment.