The University of Birmingham is inviting LGBTQ+ professionals to become mentors as part of its Careers Network LGBTQ+ Mentoring Scheme, supporting students as they prepare to take their first steps into the world of work.
The six-month programme pairs LGBTQ+ students with experienced professionals for one-to-one mentoring, giving mentees the opportunity to explore what it means to navigate the workplace as a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, queer and/or questioning person.
Mentors meet with their mentee for around an hour each month, offering guidance and sharing their own experiences of professional life. Conversations could cover everything from being open about your identity and developing a personal coming-out strategy to building confidence, expanding professional networks and navigating the transition from university into employment.
The next cohort will begin in February 2027, with mentoring relationships running for six months. Applications for students will open in mid-November, but professionals interested in becoming a mentor can register their interest now.
The University is particularly keen to hear from mentors who can offer support to students who identify as transgender and/or non-binary, helping to broaden the range of lived experiences represented within the scheme.
For professionals looking to share their experience, support emerging talent and help create more confident and authentic LGBTQ+ workplaces, the scheme offers a meaningful way to make a difference.
Interested in becoming a mentor? Read more here or complete the expression of interest form and the Careers Network team will be in touch with further information.
For questions about the scheme, contact mentoring@contacts.bham.ac.uk.
