Please join GEM's mailing list to be notified when applications for the 2024-2025 Toronto and Hamilton cohort will open.
If you have any questions about how to apply to be a mentor or about the program, email us at info@girlsementorship.com.
The GEM program helps girls break through barriers to success by connecting them with a female mentor for a 9-month mentorship relationship. GEM mentors support mentees in navigating key personal and professional development areas including goal setting, time-management and confidence building. Mentors help their mentees seek new opportunities, develop a professional network and stay committed to achieving their goals.
1. Application and Vulnerable Sector Check: Applications for the 2023-24 cohort will open on October 13, 2022 and close on June 30, 2023. All mentors are required to submit a cleared Vulnerable Sector Check dated no earlier than 2020 with their application. Please read the preamble before starting your application for more information on this process.
2. Screening and Interviews: Once applications close, applicants will be shortlisted for an interview with GEM. Mentor application screening and interviews will take place in Spring/Summer 2023.
3. Acceptance: Applicants who are accepted into the program will then be considered for matching.
4. Matching: GEM uses a comprehensive matching and screening process, based on the needs of the mentee cohort. Mentors are matched based on the mentee career aspirations, needs, hobbies, interests and residential location. Acceptance and Matching will take place in Summer 2023.
5. Orientation: Matched mentors must attend a mandatory orientation prior to program start date. Orientation will be held at the beginning of September 2023.
6. Program Start: The GEM program officially starts at GEMinar #1 at the end of September 2023. You will be introduced to your mentee at that time.
When I first learned about GEM, I knew I had to get involved. In addition to being a mentor, I also serve on GEM’s Engagement committee.
The high caliber of the girls accepted into the program is inspiring; my mentee plans to pursue a career in biomedical engineering with a gaming side hustle. She recently raised over $7500 for wheelchairs in southern India through a virtual concert, all while applying for universities, serving on student council and leading yearbook committee.
I have helped her gain more self-confidence, build strategic goals and navigate conflicting priorities with ease. As members of racialized communities (like many GEM mentees), we also bonded over our life experiences and love for Sri Lankan food.
Beyond providing GEM girls with opportunities to connect with successful women across various sectors, GEM also offers GEMinars in partnership with top global firms on branding, networking and other career development topics to both mentors and mentees.
GEM is on an exciting growth trajectory and hopes to take in 250 more mentees this year. With a growing mentee population, demand for mentors has never been higher. If you are looking for a rewarding experience, I encourage you to get involved and make a measurable impact on a GEM girl’s life.
Mentor, 2021-22
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