The traditional view of a mentoring involves 'wise and trusted guides', advising 'younger or less experienced persons'.
A more contemporary view defines mentoring as a voluntary relationship based on mutual respect, trust with a two-way communication process. It provides an opportunity for sharing skills and experiences so individuals can develop towards their personal and work related goals.
The mentor has wisdom and experience to offer the less experienced person. The mentee needs to have the drive to acquire this wisdom or insight. Ultimately, the mentor cannot force the mentee to learn or control how their insights will be deployed by the mentee.
Being a mentor should not be linked to age or bounded by any preconceived ideas about gender, race, religion, area of operation, location, or such like.
The value of a mentoring system is in the availability of an individual that understands the processes or issues confronting a colleague and who can offer a 'look around the blind corner'