Photo: Jo Keen, Founder, Coach & Mentor at Green Tomato Consultancy. © Cherished Photography by Claudia.
Client: Jo Keen, Founder, Coach & Mentor
Company: Green Tomato Consultancy
Course: ILM Level 5 in Effective Coaching and Mentoring
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The Challenge
Jo Keen, founder of Green Tomato Consultancy and an experienced coach and mentor, wanted to build on her “lived” skills and formalise her coaching expertise. While volunteering as a business mentor, Jo recognised the need to develop her confidence further:
“I wanted to cement that I was doing things the right way and set clear boundaries for my own wellbeing. Imposter syndrome often crept in, making me second guess my abilities despite positive outcomes.”
This self-doubt held Jo back from fully embracing her role and realising her potential as a coach and mentor.
Why Agile Group?
Agile Group stood out as the ideal choice for Jo, offering the ILM Level 5 Certificate in Effective Coaching and Mentoring in collaboration with trusted industry partners. The decision to enrol was seamless, and the opportunity for professional growth aligned perfectly with her goals.
The Training Experience
Jo describes her experience with Agile Group as transformative, highlighting the well-paced structure, peer-to-peer learning, and unwavering support from her tutor, Naomi:
“Naomi empowered me to believe I could complete the training. At a time of personal challenges – including three bereavements and serious family illness – her kindness, patience, and guidance gave me the courage to focus and succeed.”
Despite balancing full-time work, running a business, and significant personal commitments, Jo credits Naomi’s approach for helping her stay on track.
The course introduced Jo to new coaching models, tools, and resources, including the impactful work of Julie Starr:
“The process was cathartic; I discovered things about myself I hadn’t believed before. I embraced the importance of setting boundaries, reflective practice, and effective listening – all critical skills for my coaching journey.”
Results and Impact
Completing the ILM Level 5 programme had a profound impact on Jo, both personally and professionally. The sense of achievement and pride she felt during her graduation was life-changing:
“Wearing the mortar board and gown at 52, with my girls and partner watching, was a moment I’ll treasure forever. It gave me the confidence to take charge of my professional life and embrace opportunities I’d never have believed possible before.”
The programme equipped Jo with skills and confidence that led to tangible outcomes:
- Securing a new full-time role alongside her consultancy work.
- Achieving a promotion in her new role, something she attributes to the confidence and competence gained through the training.
- Creating her own reflective tools and templates, which she now shares with clients to encourage growth and self-discovery.
Jo describes the impact of the course as “immense”, giving her both the courage and tools to move forward with clarity and purpose.
The Agile Group Difference
Reflecting on Agile Group’s approach, Jo highlights:
- The exceptional support of Naomi: “Her kindness, knowledge, and patience gave me the strength to complete the course despite everything I was juggling.”
- Resources and opportunities for further learning: Access to the ILM membership created additional pathways for engagement and professional development.
- Celebratory milestones: The graduation ceremony was a powerful and emotional conclusion to Jo’s learning journey, leaving her feeling empowered and inspired.
Jo’s Recommendation
“I would absolutely recommend Agile Group to learners and organisations. Their approach is supportive, well-structured, and empowering. It’s been a life-changing experience.”
Conclusion
Jo’s journey demonstrates the power of structured, compassionate learning to unlock confidence, skills, and career opportunities. By formalising her expertise through Agile Group’s ILM Level 5 programme, Jo has not only elevated her coaching practice but also achieved personal growth and professional success.
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