Ethnic Minority Mentoring Scheme
Applications for our 2025 scheme are now open.
About the Scheme
The scheme offers aspiring black and ethnic-minority undergraduates the opportunity to forge a one-to-one connection with a professional mentor also from an ethnic background. Following our pilot of the scheme last year and positive feedback from mentees and mentors who engaged, we’re excited to be offering the opportunity again this year.
You will be linked to professionals from the world of work - to gain support and experience and benefit from their expertise. You will also be linked to professionals who may have overcome the same barriers, challenges and struggles you might face as an ethnic minority individual.
This scheme focuses on the development of ‘soft’ skills – leadership, communication, time/self-management, teamwork, resilience, independence, self-awareness with the overall aim of building your confidence and helping you feel empowered to achieve your career aspirations. We will do our best to connect you with a mentor who is also from your specific career sector of interest but this may not always be possible.
When it will take place and commitment required
The mentorship journey will require a minimum of 1 hour commitment per month, for 6 months.
What are the timescales
Applications open on 2nd December 2024 and close on 2nd January 2025.
Applications will be assessed and applicants contacted with outcome w/c 13th January.
Mentor matching will take place from 13th January 2025. We have an existing pool of mentors, but this may take longer if we need to source additional mentors in line with applicant preferences.
Mentorships to start by 3rd March 2025 and to finish at the end of August 2025.
Who can apply
This scheme will be open to UG, home students from an ethnic minority background studying in the College of Social Sciences.
Any questions about the scheme that aren’t answer here, please contact Lisa, Mentoring and Work Experience Lead (EDI) at mentoring@contacts.bham.ac.uk
Note: This year we are only able to run this scheme in one college, we apologise for any inconvenience. If you are from another college and would like a mentor, please look at our Careers Network Mentoring Scheme which is due to open in spring 2025.
Hear what a previous mentee had to say about the scheme
Britney Gedeon
Economics graduate
“I applied for the Ethnic Minority Mentoring Scheme towards the end of my first year of university because I wanted some career guidance, given that I was studying a BSc Economics degree but was unsure of what profession I wanted to pursue. I was also aware that I had not taken on as many career-related opportunities to heighten my industry knowledge as I could of during first year so I thought that this scheme would be helpful.
Participating in this scheme was really insightful as I was able to have interesting monthly meetings with a black female CEO of a company. She not only inspired me with her career journey after finishing her degree at the University of Birmingham, but she also recommended that I join some really good organisations, such as SEO London, that further helped me to decide what industries I wanted to look further into. My mentor also motivated me to partake in a number of extra-curricular activities in second year to make myself a stronger applicant for future internships. Therefore, I joined societies such as Social Netball and Investment and Finance society which really broadened my skills. Fortunately, during my second year of university, I was able to secure a summer internship at Arch Insurance as well as a placement year at AtkinsRealis. I currently have a graduate offer to be an Asset Management Consultant at AtkinsRealis!
I would recommend the scheme to anyone who feels that they need some guidance with navigating what career path they want to pursue and would benefit especially from a mentor with an ethnic-minority background. I would also advise that you need to be fully committed and proactive in driving your own development with the help of a mentor. For example, planning the agenda for the monthly meetings really helped me to gain the most out of this scheme.”
Hear what our previous mentors have to say about the scheme
Annabell Lamba MSc International Marketing, 2012
"As a mentor on the UoB Ethnic Minority Mentoring Programme, I am honoured to contribute to breaking down barriers and fostering a more inclusive and equitable community. This programme is a crucial step towards positive change, and I am proud to be a part of it."
Jake Webber, BA Social Policy, 2014
"The Ethnic Minority Mentoring Programme was particularly important to me as a person of colour. I am aware of the disparities in academic achievement and as a result, felt a moral obligation to take up this opportunity which enables me to give back to others at institution, where I personally, had gained such positive achievements."
FAQs
How do I apply for the Ethnic Minority Mentoring Scheme?
You can apply by completing the Ethnic Minority Mentoring Scheme application form, which will be available on the website under the "How to Apply" section.
What can I expect from a mentor?
Your mentor can provide advice on overcoming barriers in the workplace, developing key skills, and building your professional network. They are here to share their experiences as ethnic minority professionals and help you navigate your career journey. They can support you with industry specific CV support but we strongly suggest you get some input from Careers Network first.
What is expected from me as a mentee?
As a mentee, you are expected to be proactive in the mentoring relationship, setting goals, communicating openly, and respecting your mentor's time. It’s your responsibility to arrange and plan monthly meetings with your mentor.
How long does the mentoring relationship last?
The mentoring relationship typically lasts for 6 months, with meetings taking place once a month for an hour. However, you and your mentor can decide on the duration and frequency that works best for you both. It’s not guaranteed but mentors often stay in contact after the programme ends – this can be discussed as you near the end of your mentorship
Can I request a mentor from a specific industry?
While we aim to match you with a mentor from your desired industry, availability may vary. In your application, be clear about your expectations. If you prefer a specific career match or are open to a broader match within a related field or general industry, while prioritising ethnic background, let us know. This flexibility helps us find the best mentor for you.
What happens if I am not happy with my mentoring match?
If you feel the mentoring relationship is not working, you can contact the Careers Network team to discuss your concerns and explore re-matching options.
How often should I meet with my mentor?
We recommend monthly meetings for 6 months. However, the timing and frequency can be adjusted based on both your needs and your mentor's availability. It is the mentee’s responsibility to arrange these meetings and ensure they are scheduled at mutually convenient times.
What support is available if I have issues during the mentoring relationship?
If you encounter any issues or have concerns, please contact the Careers Network team for support and guidance.
Need Help?
If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help. You can contact us at: mentoring@contacts.bham.ac.uk.