Femme Palette mentor Natia Mikhanashvili on empowering first-time founders & her mentoring highlights

We are delighted to present our Mentor Spotlight featuring Natia Mikhanashvili, a professional coach and founder of Persona Coaching. With over a decade of experience in senior HR leadership, Natia now dedicates her career to empowering first-time founders and CEOs to scale their businesses with confidence. Beyond the boardroom, she’s an avid scuba diver, often drawing clarity and inspiration from her underwater adventures. In this interview, Natia opens up about her journey as a mentor, what she has learned through the Femme Palette community, and her advice for those looking to guide the next generation of ambitious professionals.

1. Could you start by telling us a bit about yourself—your current position, your company, and perhaps a fun fact that reflects who you are?

Hi, I’m Natia Mikhanashvili, a professional coach and founder of Persona Coaching, where I empower first-time founders and CEOs to scale their businesses with confidence. Before starting my own business, I spent over a decade in senior HR leadership. Fun fact: I’m also a scuba diver who finds inspiration underwater—there’s something magical about clarity in the depths!

2. What do you like most about being a Femme Palette mentor?

The most rewarding part of being a Femme Palette mentor is supporting ambitious women as they carve their unique paths. I’m continually inspired by their courage, determination, and desire to make a difference—whether as mothers, leaders, or committed professionals. It’s a privilege to foster a space where they feel supported to thrive.

3. What is something you have learned through being a Femme Palette mentor?

Mentoring has reinforced my belief in the transformative power of meaningful dialogue. As a professional coach, I’ve always understood the importance of listening deeply, but mentoring has given me the privilege of engaging with driven women who are shaping their worlds. I love creating a nurturing space where growth is a two-way journey—while empowering them to thrive, I also grow as a woman and a professional by learning from their unique stories and perspectives.

4. What piece of advice do you have for aspiring mentors?

For aspiring mentors, my advice is simple: trust the process and don’t feel the need to have all the answers. True mentorship isn’t about telling; it’s about asking the right questions, creating a safe space for exploration, and being fully present in the journey. Bring empathy, authenticity, and curiosity—you’ll grow just as much as your mentee will.

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Has Natia inspired you to work with a mentor? Learn more about our Mentoring program and apply here.