Mentorships

Our Mentorship Program fosters a relationship of sharing ideas & perspectives while guiding students as they gain experience & build their professional network. 

"Mentorship is the influence, guidance, or direction given by a mentor. A mentor is someone who teaches or gives help & advice to a less experienced & often younger person."

STEM panelists share their career and educational journeys

Mentoring Program Overview

The Igniting the Pathways to Success Mentoring program was developed to support BIPOC high school students (grades 9-12) interested in exploring careers in Arts or STEM. In partnership with Entertainment Industry Professionals Mentoring Alliance (EIPMA), the program consists of a series of virtual workshops that integrates soft skill building with life-skill development & post-secondary education culture awareness. Mentees will get personal guidance, & support along with the opportunity to meet & network with experienced professionals via two panel discussions and two speed mentoring sessions. Like speed dating, speed mentoring allows mentees to connect with multiple professionals in a short amount of time. Each session will involve 5 rotations with ~10-12 minutes in each rotation followed by an interactive panel discussion with the mentors. With each rotation, mentees get to interact with a new group of professionals and engage in a new conversation.

How it works

  • Each 8 week term is limited to 25 students.
  • Qualified candidates are accepted on a first-come-first-serve basis.
  • To ensure that mentees get the most out of the program, we require that mentees commit to all 8 weeks.
  • Mentees will be connected to multiple mentors during each 8 week program.
  • Mentees are required to complete an application to participate in the program 2 to 3 months prior to the program start date.
STEM mentors share their career and education journeys

Who It's For

BIPOC high school students who are curious about careers in Arts or STEM. The program provides mentorship in 2 key ways:

  1. Soft skills
  2. Explore a variety of Arts or STEM career options including (this is not an exhaustive list - just a sample list of potential arts & STEM careers):
  • Art Director
  • Sculptor
  • Costume Designer
  • Composer (music)
  • Animator
  • Video Editor
  • Arts Therapist
  • Musician
  • Film Director
  • Web Designer
  • Civil Engineer
  • Poet
  • Lighting Designer (stage/film)
  • Producer (film/theater/music)
  • Fine Artist (painter, sculptor, etc.)
  • Software Developer
  • Materials Scientist
  • Marine Biologist
  • Environmental Engineer
  • Graphics Designer
  • Business Analysis
  • Data Analytics
  • System Administrator
  • Network Administrator
  • Startups
  • Digital Marketing
  • Project & Product Management
  • Business Analytics
  • UX/UI Design

Program Outline

Students smiling with their new back packs and supplies.

Program Week 1
Mentoring Panel Discussion - Session 1 (2 hours)
This panel discussion is YOUR chance to meet incredible mentors from diverse Arts & STEM fields! Ask them anything about their journeys, from overcoming challenges to landing dream jobs, and get real-life advice on navigating your own path.

Program Week 2
Building your network workshop. (4 hours)
We'll show you how to connect with inspiring individuals, discover hidden opportunities, and build a network that supports your journey, whether it's post-secondary education, career, or beyond.

Program Week 3
Speed Mentoring Session 1 (2 hours)
The day starts with a 30 minute mini panel discussion to introduce the mentors and explain the format. In speed mentoring, 4 students meet 2-3 industry pros for 4 quick bursts of guidance.

Program Week 4
Post Secondary Education Options for Arts & STEM workshop (4 hours)
This webinar, just for YOU, dives into exciting paths for high schoolers to explore scholarships, financial aid hacks, and discover hidden gem programs perfect for your artistic talents, tech passions, or everything in between.

Program Week 5
Public speaking and presentations workshop (4 hours)
We'll guide you through powerful presentation skills, crafting impactful messages, and conquering those nervous jitters. Imagine confidently presenting your ideas, leading discussions, and even nailing college interviews!

Program Week 6
Speed Mentoring Session 2 (2 hours)
(see week 3)

Program Week 7
Resume Writing & Interviewing 101 workshop (4 hours)
We'll crack the code on building a resume that screams "hire me!" and guide you through interview do's and don'ts with pro tips and practice sessions.

Program Week 8
Mentoring Panel Discussion -Session 2 (2 hours)
(see week 1)