Join our mission to uplift and guide the next generation of Black women leaders. As a mentor with the Network for Black Women Leaders Mentoring Programme, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the careers and lives of ambitious Black women across the UK. As a valued mentor, your journey with NBWL matters, so we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions we have received.

Who is NBWL designed for?  
NBWL is specifically tailored for Black women, especially those from the African diaspora. We aim to provide an environment tailored to their unique experiences and challenges.

What will I do as a mentor?

As a mentor with the Network for Black Women Leaders, you will be part of a fully-funded programme dedicated to celebrating and elevating Black women in leadership. You will contribute to a significant cause while growing professionally, connecting with like-minded professionals in a supportive and dynamic environment. 

• Share your wisdom and experiences in one-to-one and group settings.
• Provide solid mentorship and nurture aspirational leaders.
• Engage in impactful networking events and workshops.

Who can apply to be a mentor in the NBWL Mentoring Programme?

We welcome applications from experienced professionals passionate about empowering, guiding, and supporting emerging Black women leaders. If you are a Black woman with a background in leadership and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, we encourage you to apply.

What is expected of me as a mentor? 

As a mentor, you’ll be expected to share your knowledge, experiences, and insights through one-to-one sessions and group workshops. You’ll help mentees set and achieve their professional goals, offer guidance on overcoming challenges, and support them in their personal and career development.

How much time commitment is required?

We value your contribution and understand your time is precious. The programme is designed to be flexible, with sessions scheduled in advance (where possible) to suit your availability. Over the duration of the programme, you can expect to donate roughly 18 hours over a 6–9-month period. As a minimum, we hope this to include:

• A half-day mentor training session if you are new to mentoring or a 90-minute workshop for experienced mentors.  
• One 45-minute group session with the network.
• One 30-minute ‘Get to know me’ initial chat with your mentee.
• Six 1-hour one-to-one mentoring sessions with your mentee.
• One 45-minute wrap-up session to complete the evaluation form that will be used to inform future programmes and funding for this initiative.

Do you host events?

Yes, we frequently organise events in different locations. We encourage you to stay updated by joining the WRC newsletter (the sign-up for the mailing list is in the footer of this page) and by visiting our Training and Events Calendar.

What is the timeline of the programme?

The 2024-2025 NBWL Mentoring Programme is scheduled to run from September/October 2024 - June 2025.

Are there any fees or charges for the mentoring programme?

Most of the NBWL resources are free to access. However, some events or activities might require nominal fees, which will be clearly listed. 

Are mentors paid?

Mentors on the NBWL Mentoring Programme donate their time. We are not able to pay mentors. However, we offer a small amount of money towards expenses, such as travel and refreshments, if mentors and mentees want to meet in person. 

I’m not fully familiar with NBWL. Can I still apply? 

Absolutely! While familiarity with NBWL is beneficial, it’s not a prerequisite. We seek mentors committed to our mission of supporting Black women leaders. What truly matters is your willingness to learn and contribute to the community.

How will I be matched with mentees?

Matches are made based on shared interests, professional backgrounds, and mentees' specific needs. We aim to create synergistic mentor-mentee pairs that foster meaningful and productive relationships.

What support will I receive as a mentor? 

Our mentors are invaluable to us. Throughout the programme, you’ll receive dedicated support from the NBWL team. This includes access to resources, training sessions, and regular check-ins to ensure you have everything you need to be an effective mentor.

Are the mentoring sessions confidential?

Absolutely. Ensuring a safe and supportive environment is our priority. All mentors, mentees and coaches adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines.

What outcomes can I expect from my participation?

As a mentor, you’ll have the unique opportunity to positively impact the lives and careers of Black women leaders. You’ll also expand your network, develop your mentorship skills, and be part of a transformative programme that celebrates and elevates the role of Black women in leadership.

I'm not a Black woman, but I'd like to mentor. How can I be involved?

While NBWL is curated for Black women, Women's Resource Centre offers various other programmes with similar leadership opportunities. Explore the Feminist Leadership Training Programme or submit an enquiry.

How can I stay updated with NBWL activities?  
Regular newsletters and updates are sent out to our NBWL members. Plus, our website and social media channels are refreshed with the latest news and opportunities. Sign up for our newsletter in the footer of this page, and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram and LinkedIn.

We look forward to having you join us in this empowering journey. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of Black women leaders across the UK!

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Terms & Conditions: Please take a moment to review our terms and conditions to ensure a safe, respectful, and productive environment for everyone involved.

We expect participants to:

• Appreciate this safe, Black women-only space.
• Respect the other participants and the staff/associates of Women’s Resource Centre (WRC).
• Treat everyone fairly and without prejudice or discrimination.
• Be an active listener.
• Respect and appreciate the knowledge and expertise of the other participants.
• Encourage each other.
• Respect confidentiality - “share the learning but not the person”.
• Never engage in patronising, abusive, threatening or intrusive behaviour.

WRC reserves the right to refuse entry and admission to anyone who breaches these Terms and Conditions. WRC also reserves the right to cease a participant's involvement if they are believed to have breached the Terms and Conditions before or during the programme.