The impact of culturally safe, structured mentoring cannot be overstated. We’ve recently finalised a review of our 2025 mentoring program and we want to share some of the learnings.
Throughout 2025, Ember Connect supported 68 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women through our mentoring program, facilitating 34 mentoring relationships across a diverse range of industries, career stages and aspirations.
The outcomes from our recent participant survey highlight the strength of this model:
• 100% of respondents would recommend the program
• 92% reported increased confidence to pursue career opportunities or progression
• 75% developed new routines and goal setting practices to support their wellbeing
Respondents consistently spoke about the value of having a trusted mentor to provide encouragement, practical advice, and new perspectives. For many, the experience directly contributed to career progression, improved confidence and a stronger sense of direction.
This work has been made possible through the support of our funding partners. Indigenous Business Australia supported the pilot of the program in 2023, 100 Women, whose 2025 funding enabled us to sustain and further develop the model, and BHP, whose long term commitment helps us maintain our core operations.
Our new mentoring cohort for 2026 currently has 92 women involved in 46 mentoring relationships, and as we continue to grow the program, we are seeking more participants. For more information, or to get involved, visit our mentoring page.
If this opportunity is not for you, we encourage you to share it with your networks to help more First Nations women access free mentoring and support.
Together, we can continue to build confidence, capability and connection.