STEM Sisters Mentoring Program

Mentorship for Success in STEM

The STEM Sisters mentoring program (STEM SIS) is dedicated to supporting women of colour (WOC) in pursuing careers in STEM fields. Our program provides tailored mentoring support and networking opportunities to help our mentees achieve their professional goals and thrive in their careers.

At STEM SIS, we believe mentoring is a powerful tool for supporting career development and growth. Our program is designed to facilitate meaningful mentor-mentee relationships that allow mentees to learn from the experiences of their mentors, gain valuable insights into the STEM industry, and develop the skills needed to succeed in their careers.

We are committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion in our program. We believe that supporting WOC in STEM careers can create a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

Breaking Barriers, Creating Opportunities: A Unique Mentoring Program for WOC in STEM

By WOC for WOC

We take pride in offering a mentoring program exclusively by women of colour (WOC) for women of colour in STEM. We understand that the representation, support, and guidance from individuals who share similar experiences will be transformative. Our program is designed to provide a safe and empowering space where WOC in STEM can connect, learn, and grow.

Customized Matches

Our program offers customized mentor-mentee matches based on areas of interest and career goals. We understand that everyone’s journey is unique, and we strive to create meaningful connections between mentors and mentees who share similar passions and aspirations. This tailored approach ensures that mentees receive targeted support and guidance that aligns with their specific needs and ambitions.

Three categories to choose from

We understand that different individuals have unique needs and goals at various stages of their STEM careers. That’s why our mentoring program offers three distinct categories tailored to meet the specific requirements of our mentees. Whether you are a current student, recent graduate, early career professional, STEM returner, or considering a career shift, we have a mentoring stream designed just for you.

Revitalized and Resilient: STEM Sisters Mentoring Program Returns with Strong Sponsorship Support

After a successful launch in 2019 and a positive response from the STEM community, the STEM Sisters Mentoring Program is coming back in 2023. We are excited to announce that, with our sponsors’ generous support, we can once again offer this transformative program to women of colour in STEM.

In 2019, the program was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, connecting WOC mentees with experienced mentors who shared their passion for advancing diversity in the STEM fields. The program continued its mission in 2020, witnessing the growth and achievements of its participants. However, due to insufficient financial resources, we were unable to offer the program in 2021 and 2022.

Now, we are proud to return in 2023 stronger than ever, thanks to the unwavering support of our sponsors and partners. Their commitment to empowering WOC in STEM has made it possible for us to revitalize the program and continue making a lasting impact in the lives and careers of our mentees.

We are grateful to the following sponsors and partners for recognizing the importance of diversity and inclusion in STEM and partnering with us to make a meaningful difference. Their support enables us to offer a comprehensive program that addresses the specific needs and aspirations of WOC in STEM, empowering them to excel in their chosen fields.

Mentoring Program Categories

Regardless of your category, the STEM Sisters Mentoring Program is committed to providing the tools, knowledge, and network you need to thrive in the STEM industry. We believe in the power of mentorship to empower women of colour and promote diversity and inclusion within the STEM fields.

Attention current STEM students who are women of colour! Are you seeking an opportunity to connect with experienced STEM professionals who can help guide your career journey? Look no further than the STEM Sisters Mentoring Program!

Our 12-week mentoring program is designed specifically for women of colour studying STEM subjects. We believe that mentorship is crucial for career development, and our program allows mentees to connect with mentors with experience in their field of interest.

As a mentee in our program, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the STEM industry, develop professional skills, and build your network. You’ll be matched with a mentor with experience in your field of interest who can provide guidance and support throughout the program. Plus, you’ll have access to customized mentoring matches based on your areas of interest and career goals.

Our program is open to women of colour from all STEM fields, including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Whether you’re just starting your career path or looking to take your skills to the next level, our program can provide the support and resources you need to succeed.

Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity! Apply now to become a mentee in the 2023 STEM Sisters Mentoring Program. We can’t wait to help you achieve your goals and reach your full potential in STEM.

You’ll be mentored on the following:

  • Career direction
  • Personal Brand
  • Developing your communication skills
  • Improving career connections
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Enhancing leadership capability – University

Mentoring Program Features:

  • 12-week program
  • Mentee orientation and training
  • Clear defined goals
  • Strong mentor-mentee matches
  • Measurable results
  • Access to a fully integrated mentoring platform

Program launch – This will be an opportunity for mentors, mentees, members and supporters of the STEM Sisters to meet each other. 

Mentees are the ones who “steer the ships” of their lives and careers. Through this training, mentees will acquire useful skills to benefit from the valuable experience of the paired mentor. The techniques on how to better identify and achieve your personal and professional development goals are discussed (GROW model) 

Do you know what you want to do with your career?  

This week, work with your mentor to define your career goals, small and large. Break these goals down into achievable actions with your mentor to get you to your desired profession.  

What is your personal brand? Have you thought about your personal branding?

A well-defined personal brand is about making you stand out in the crowd of recruitable current postgraduate and final year undergraduates. Work with your mentor on how a well-defined personal brand can assist you in succeeding in your career.  

There are many types of communication. What is your communication style? What communication style do you struggle with? 

This week, work with your mentor to discuss what communication styles or types you find the easiest and whether there is anything you could improve on from a communication point of view. Think about whether you practice active listening, nonverbal communication such as eye contact, a friendly tone or a simple smile, etc.  

Let’s work on your resume, cover letter, key selection criteria, and interview skills. Everyone has different approaches, learn from your mentor what is key to get noticed in the job application process in your STEM field.  

  

What professional skills do you need to work on?  

Discuss with your mentor other development opportunities that could assist you in moving closer to your goal, big or small. Do you need to work on writing professional emails? Or, wanting to upskill in something more technical.  

Leadership isn’t just about being a manager. Explore different types of leadership and the capabilities with your mentor. From accountability, creativity or innovation, self-leadership, servant-leadership, collaboration, motivation, empowerment and many others.   

Recent STEM graduates who are women of colour, are you feeling lost or uncertain about your next steps? The STEM Sisters Mentoring Program is here to support you!

Our 12-week program is designed specifically for recent graduates who are women of colour interested in pursuing a career in STEM. Our program allows mentees to connect with experienced STEM professionals who can provide guidance and support throughout the program.

As a mentee in our program, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the STEM industry, develop professional skills, and build your network. You’ll be matched with a mentor who has experience in your field of interest and who can provide guidance and support throughout the program. Plus, you’ll have access to customized mentoring matches based on your areas of interest and career goals.

Our program is open to women of colour from all STEM fields, including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Whether you’re just starting on your career path or looking to take your skills to the next level, our program can provide the support and resources you need to succeed.

Don’t let uncertainty hold you back! Apply now to become a mentee in the STEM Sisters Mentoring Program. We can’t wait to help you achieve your goals and reach your full potential in STEM.

You’ll be mentored on the following:

  • Profiling yourself  
  • Improving career connections
  • Developing your communication skills
  • Job interview guidance
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Enhancing leadership capability – Volunteer

Mentoring Program Features:

  • 12-week program
  • Mentee orientation and training
  • Clear defined goals
  • Strong mentor-mentee matches
  • Measurable results
  • Access to a fully integrated mentoring platform

This will be an opportunity for mentors, mentees, members and supporters of the STEM Sisters to meet each other.

Mentee training session – Mentees are the ones who “steer the ships” of their lives and careers. Through  

this training, mentees will acquire useful skills to benefit from the valuable experience of the paired mentor. The techniques on how to better identify and achieve your personal and professional development goals are discussed (GROW model) 

Deep-drive with your mentor regarding your skills and improvement points. Put together a plan to enhance your best skills and improve your weak points.  

Have you ever thought about building your network? Networking in Australia is the way to secure career connections. Discuss with your mentor how to go about making connections in your desired career direction. Make sure you have a LinkedIn profile and ask your mentor to review and connect with you. Put a plan together on how you can reach out to at least 2 new connections this week.  

There are many types of communication. What is your communication style? What communication style do you struggle with? 

This week, work with your mentor to discuss what communication styles or types you find the easiest and whether there is anything you could improve on from a communication point of view. Think about whether you practice active listening, nonverbal communication such as eye contact, a friendly tone or a simple smile, etc.  

Let’s work on your resume, cover letter, key selection criteria, and interview skills. Everyone has different approaches, learn from your mentor what is key to get noticed in the job application process in your STEM field.  

What professional skills do you need to work on?  

Discuss with your mentor other development opportunities that could assist you in moving closer to your goal, big or small. Do you need to work on writing professional emails? Or, wanting to upskill in something more technical.  

How do you make yourself stand out from the crowd of those recent STEM graduates? One particular way is to enhance your current skills through real-world experience. Volunteering can assist in showcasing that learnt knowledge and skills from your degree.  

Are you an early career STEM professional, a STEM returner, a STEM career shifter, and a woman of colour? Do you need additional support and guidance to reach your career goals? The STEM Sisters Mentoring Program is here to help!

Our 12 weeks -long group mentoring program is designed specifically for women of colour looking to advance their careers, gain new skills, or transition into new areas of STEM. Our program provides an opportunity for mentees to connect with a group of mentors and peers who can offer valuable insights and perspectives.

As a mentee in our program, you can access regular group meetings, one-on-one mentoring sessions, and professional development workshops. You’ll be matched with a mentor with experience in your field of interest who can provide guidance and support throughout the program. Plus, you’ll have access to customized mentoring matches based on your areas of interest and career goals.

Our program is open to women of colour from all STEM fields, including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Whether you’re looking to gain new skills, transition into a new area of STEM, or advance your career, our program can provide the support and resources you need to succeed.

Don’t let the challenges of early career STEM life hold you back! Apply now to become a mentee in the STEM Sisters Mentoring Program. We can’t wait to help you achieve your goals and reach your full potential in STEM.

You’ll be mentored on the following:

  • Professional Development Opportunities  
  • Career Growth 
  • Enhancing leadership capacity – Workplace 
  • Securing Promotions 
  • Career Connections 
  • Overcoming Obstacles  

Mentoring Program Features:

  • 12-week program
  • Mentee orientation and training
  • Clear defined goals
  • Strong mentor-mentee matches
  • Measurable results
  • Access to a fully integrated mentoring platform

This will be an opportunity for mentors, mentees, members and supporters of the STEM Sisters to meet each other.

Mentees are the ones who “steer the ships” of their lives and careers. Through  

this training, mentees will acquire useful skills to benefit from the valuable experience of the paired mentor. The techniques on how to better identify and achieve your personal and professional development goals are discussed (GROW model)

What professional skills do you need to work on?  

Discuss with your mentor other development opportunities that could assist you in moving closer to your goal, big or small. Do you need to work on writing professional emails? Or, wanting to upskill in something more technical.  

Most of the time, there is more to one’s career than a linear upwards trajectory. Brainstorm your career goals with your mentor, and discuss how your mentor is where they are now. Think about small frequent steps that could assist you in the long run, what comes to mind for your particular STEM field? 

There are multitudes of different types of leadership capabilities. From accountability, creativity or innovation, self-leadership, severt-leadership, collaboration, motivation, empowerment and many others, explore with your mentor how these capabilities can assist you in stepping up to management levels.   

Brainstorm how promotions work in your particular STEM field with your mentor, and discuss how to embed those skills and strategies into your current work. 

Have you ever thought about building your network? Networking in Australia is the way to secure career connections. Discuss with your mentor how to go about making connections in your desired career direction. Make sure you have a LinkedIn profile and ask your mentor to review and connect with you. Put a plan together on how you can reach out to at least 2 new connections this week.  

What has been coming up at work that stops you from progressing? Discuss your work environment with your mentor to figure out the elements of your career that could be holding you back. Remember to focus on what you can do to improve things. 

Mentee EOI

The STEM Sisters Mentoring Program is excited to announce that we are now accepting expressions of interest (EOI) from mentees for our empowering mentorship program.

Your role as a Mentee

  • Meet your mentor at least once weekly during the program (either through Zoom or face-to-face).
  • Participate actively and sincerely in the discussions brought forth by the mentors.
  • Attend Weeks 1 in-person launch event and Weeks 4 and 9 in-person networking events.

Program Timeline

  • Application EOI start – 5th June 2023
  • Application EOI close – 30th June 2023
  • Matching is done between 1st July to 10th July 2023

STEM Sisters Mentoring program begins on the week starting from 10th July 2023 (week 1) and ends on the week ending on 29th September 2023 (Week 12)

  • Week one – Program Launch 12 noon to 1pm 11th July 2023 (online) In-person event 10th July from 5pm to 7pm, Melbourne CBD
  • Week two –Mentee Training 5pm to 6pm 18th July 3023 (online)
  • Week four – In-person Networking event 5pm to 7pm on 3rd August 2023, Melbourne CBD
  • Week nine – In-person Networking event 5pm to 7pm on 7th September 2023, Melbourne CBD
  • Week Twelve – Program End 29th Sep 2023 12 noon to 1pm (online)

As a mentee, committing dedicated time and effort to the program is important. Please review your schedule and ensure that you have the availability to actively engage in mentoring sessions, meetings, and related program activities before you submit your EOI.