'First Mentor' opportunity launched

Young women aged 18–23 can now apply to be mentored by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

The First Minister launched the opportunity to coincide with International Women’s Day by visiting Smart Works. The Edinburgh charity supports women to get back to the workplace.

She announced plans to mentor a young woman last month, calling on women in leadership roles to follow her example.                                                              

The First Minister said:

“International Women’s Day is a chance to celebrate women’s achievements and contributions, and remind us that while we’ve made progress, there is still much to do.

“If we are serious about reducing gender inequality and creating the next generation of women leaders, it’s up to us as women to ensure this happens.

“Mentoring a young woman is a highly effective way to enhance her career chances – giving her the confidence and knowledge to strive for her ambitions.

“I repeat my challenge to women leaders in Scotland– if you know a young woman of great potential, become her mentor. Her success will be yours as well, and you will have both learned from the experience. That’s how it works.”

Louise Macdonald, Chief Executive of Young Scot said,

“To be mentored by the First Minister is an incredible opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from amazing young women from across Scotland who have a passion for making the world a better place and will make the most of this unique chance to work alongside the FM.  By supporting young women and showing them there are no limits, we can all help to improve equality in Scotland.”

Background

Interested young women can apply to be mentored by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon via Young Scot. Applications close on 30 May.

The launch of the First Mentor opportunity is part of a range of activity this week to mark International Women’s Day (IWD):

• On Saturday, the First Minister announced the appointment of Louise Macdonald OBE as Chair of the new Advisory Council on Women and Girls
• On Monday, the First Minister opened An Lanntair Arts Centre’s programme of events to mark IWD at Stornoway
• It was announced at yesterday’s IWD debate in Parliament that more women than men received public appointments in 2016.