We asked Anneke Brown from Women in Tourism and Hospitality WA (WITH WA) to tell us more about the launch of the group’s upcoming mentorship program.
What is the WITH Insights Mentor Circle program?
The Mentor Circle is a mentoring program designed for aspiring female leaders in the tourism and hospitality industry. Coming into its third year in 2025, WITH WA is proud to offer this exclusive six-month program to our members in Western Australia. Mentees will be carefully matched with a mentor who can support, upskill and empower them on their journey toward leadership roles.
The Mentor Circle brings accomplished leaders together with emerging future leaders to develop confidence, build networks and gain new skills. Our mission at WITH WA is to support the career progression of women in tourism and hospitality, which is the key motivator and purpose for this program.
In addition to being paired with a suitable mentor, mentees will have access to WITH WA co-members through networking events. These events feature industry leaders sharing knowledge and provide opportunities to connect with industry peers.
This program offers invaluable skills designed to assist with career progression into leadership roles.
How can WITH help you?
We understand that women face unique challenges in the workplace and this program offers support and guidance to help women take their next step into leadership roles, through demonstrating and teaching career skills.
We aim to:
- Address challenges: To tackle barriers to career progression for aspiring female leaders.
- Advance skills: To help women enhance their skills and bolster the industry with empathetic, skilled leaders.
- Build confidence: To empower women to be confident and successful in their careers.
- Equip leaders: To provide future female leaders with the key leadership and career skills they need to thrive.
What is a mentor circle?
A Mentor Circle brings together a mentor with a group of mentees to work collaboratively through the program. The mentor, an industry professional, guides the small group of mentees over six months. Learning is facilitated not only through the mentor’s guidance but also through peer connections and the creation of a support network among Mentees.
Who can be a mentee?
Mentees must be financial members of WITH WA with at least three years of industry experience and demonstrated aspirations to advance into leadership roles. Participants should have the drive and desire to make a difference and must be able to commit to six monthly sessions with mentors and fellow mentees. Letters of support from an employer or colleague are encouraged.
Registrations for the 2025 program open on Wednesday 23 October and close on Thursday 28 November 2024. Places are limited.
Who are the mentors?
The program features forward-thinking, progressive, and visionary leaders from the tourism and hospitality industry in and around Western Australia. The WITH WA management committee has carefully selected industry mentors who will guide and support mentees through the next phase of their careers. These professionals have demonstrated knowledge and commitment through senior leadership roles and have firsthand experience overcoming career challenges. They are individuals driving industry change and leading others.
The WITH Insights Mentor Circle program is designed to facilitate learning in a small group environment and through special networking events. Participants will gain insights into strategies that can remove barriers for women as they progress into leadership roles. With access to their mentor, special guest speakers and other participants, each mentee will graduate with a clear career path, new skills, a deeper understanding of their profession and an established network of support.
What does the program cover?
The program offers access to a network of skilled professional women who provide career path guidance through personal experiences and practical tips. Successful participants will join as a small group, once a month over six sessions. The program includes shared storytelling and collaboration with industry leaders. Guest speakers will present key business and life skills invaluable for a successful career journey.
The major themes are:
- Career path guidance and goal setting
- Overcoming career hurdles
- Presenting with courage and influence
- Networking and personal branding
- Financial awareness for professional growth
Mentors will facilitate sessions with mentees in a group circle, fostering long-term professional connections. Participants are encouraged to grow and become empowered to advance their careers. Access to resources and opportunities to share learnings will be provided throughout the program.
Can you please share the program details?
- Duration: February to August 2025
- Location: Perth CBD
- Commitment: Two hours per month for six months
- Fee: $395 per person
The mentee program fee includes:
- Carefully matched with an industry professional as your Mentor
- Mentor Circle sessions with special guest speakers
- Refreshments for each session
- Networking opportunities at WITH WA member events
How do I get involved?
Apply online to connect with women who want to support your professional goals and help you grow into a successful leader in our tourism and hospitality industry. Applications open on 23 October.
For further information and to apply (when registrations open), visit the website https://www.withwa.com.au/mentor-circle