The objectives of the Irshad programme are to accelerate integration, promote cultural binding, develop a support network and team spirit and encourage cross-functionality for newcomers.

Eighteen new employees (mentees) participated in the programme, each being assigned a mentor from a different division of the company. Each mentee presents a project to the management at the end of the mentoring programme that is likely to benefit to the company.

Guillaume Chalmin, managing director of Total E&P Qatar and Group representative, who presented certificates and awards to the new employees, said: “At Total, we want each new employee to feel welcome and quickly integrate into our company. We also expect them to develop their sense of ownership and innovation through the project they carry out in the framework of the mentoring programme.

“This programme creates a platform for new employees to feel a part of Total. It also gives them the opportunity to promote the ideas that they may have to improve the way we are working in the company. It is a very positive experience for all involved.”

The employees expressed their appreciation for the programme, citing it as a great initiative for all newcomers to develop technical and soft skills and establish a real and close network. It was also a unique opportunity for existing employees to develop new hires and promote teamwork.

Heba al-Saffar, who recently joined the Field Operations department, said: “The Irshad initiative has been very rewarding for me as I gained a lot of knowledge from my mentor, Carolina Pretzel, deputy vice-president of HR, Communications and CSR. I learnt a lot from her about how her department functions and much more.

“So far, my experience with Total has been very positive and it is an everyday learning environment with very rewarding results. I was very happy and excited to present my project, IPTCAR, during the graduation ceremony, which will help promote innovation, team spirit, creativity, awareness and safety within the company.”