When Someone Sees What You See: Benjamin Pellin on Finding the Right Mentor

Transformational Journey

Benjamin Pellin is making a career pivot. A professional videographer from Los Angeles currently studying ESG and sustainability, he's working to transition from filmmaking into motorsports. It's the kind of shift that requires not only ambition, but also guidance from people who understand both the industry and the unique challenges he faces.

That's what drew him to the FIA Disability in Motorsport mentorship program. "I was motivated by the opportunity to connect with seasoned professionals who also experience disability as I pivot from filmmaking into motorsports," Benjamin explains.

Finding Someone Who Listens

Benjamin was paired with Julian, a mentor whose approach stood out. "Julian listened to my unique goals and helped place them in a professional context and refine my game plan," Benjamin says. "It feels different because he not only wants to see me succeed and grow as a professional, but he also is able to place himself in my shoes and see things from my perspective."

That ability to truly understand someone's perspective instead of simply advising from a distance shaped their mentorship relationship. It created space for Benjamin to share his creative ideas.

The Moment Everything Changed

One turning point came when Benjamin shared an unusual pet project with Julian. He expected pushback. "I thought I would be met with a hard reality check followed by 'that's impossible,'" he recalls. "But instead he saw what I see and decided to help me achieve this goal using his unique skill set."

The mentor's response of meeting an unconventional idea with openness rather than dismissal demonstrated what made their mentorship work. Julian brought experience and professional context while still leaning into Benjamin's ambitions.

Another standout moment came at the end of their three-month program. Benjamin had already begun the process of accepting new mentors when Julian asked if he wanted to extend their mentorship. That offer was a symbol of the genuine connection they'd built.

What Makes a Great Mentor

Reflecting on the experience, and what qualities matter most, Benjamin shares that "The most profound qualities any mentor can have is a willingness to listen and think creatively about my questions and goals, and bring a healthy dose of reality while leaning into my unique ambitions. Julian blends both seamlessly."

Reinforcing Faith in People

Benjamin was already an advocate for mentorship before joining the program. The experience didn't change his opinion, but it did something else. "This experience reinforced my faith in humanity and the wholesomeness of people," he says.

In a career transition that could feel isolating, finding the right mentor made a real difference. The journey reminded him that there are still people who genuinely want to help others grow.

Advice for Others

For anyone considering joining the program, Benjamin confidently says "Do it. Don't ask questions, just do it."

He also recommends Formula Careers as a resource and job board for anyone in motorsport seeking professional growth.

The Value of Being Understood

Benjamin's story highlights something essential about effective mentorship: feeling seen and understood matters as much as receiving advice. When a mentor can place themselves in your shoes, creative ideas get room to develop rather than getting shut down. Unconventional career paths become more navigable.

For someone pivoting into a new industry while experiencing disability, having a mentor who shares that perspective can make the difference between staying stuck and moving forward.

The mentorship between Benjamin and Julian provided connection, encouragement, and proof that the right support exists for those willing to seek it out.