The SheLeads Mentorship program has begun its spring cohort, pairing women who are starting or growing a business with mentors who have been through the same challenges. The program runs for six months and combines one-to-one conversations with group sessions.
How the program works
Each mentee sets two or three goals in the first month, such as writing a business plan, finding the first ten customers or preparing a loan application. Mentors and mentees agree on a meeting rhythm, usually every two or three weeks, and the chamber checks in to see how things are going. Group evenings bring the whole cohort together to share lessons and to hear from guest speakers.
What mentees say
Past participants describe the program as practical and encouraging. Many say the biggest benefit was having someone to ask honest questions without worrying about sounding inexperienced. Others found customers or suppliers through their mentor’s network.
- Matching is based on industry, goals and availability.
- Mentors volunteer their time and commit to the full term.
- Group sessions cover finance, marketing and wellbeing.
Applications for the next cohort will open in the autumn. Women who would like to volunteer as mentors are always welcome to introduce themselves through the portal. The chamber thanks the mentors who have given their time and the sponsors who make the program free for participants.