This programme aims to support cultural professionals and encourage sharing experiences. In practice, a more experienced professional in the sector (mentor) is connected with another participant, usually with less experience (mentee). Over several sessions, the mentee is supported in developing and refining skills that will help them in their personal and professional goals. A wide variety of professional topics is explored, from leadership skills and strategic thinking to personal communication, among others. All this in a confidential and relaxed environment.
In this mentoring programme, mentors, mentees, and coordinators are involved as volunteers.
How does it work?
There are individual sessions between mentors and mentees. The frequency and duration of the sessions are agreed upon between mentor and mentee. There is a minimum of one session per month, for two hours.
In addition to the individual sessions, there are three thematic sessions along the year involving all participants. These sessions aim to discuss topics which are relevant for the cultural sector and are announced well in advance.
The programme concludes an open session in November, open to the public and those interested in participating in a future edition.
What are the benefits?
This informal and voluntary mutual support project can benefit both mentors and mentees, helping them understand different realities outside their institutions, connect with professionals with diverse challenges, different from or similar to one’s own, and be part of the evolution of the sector, all this in a safe, relaxed and informal environment.
Coordination
The programme is coordinated by Acesso Cultura members Ana Braga, Gabriela da Rocha, Lívia Nascimento and Teresa Costa.
Testimonials from participants
“I signed up because I felt the need to have someone with whom to share some of the daily challenges I face in my work and to discuss possible strategies for better managing them.”
“The importance of listening to the other person, letting them say everything and only then helping them with possible solutions.”
“My expectations weren’t specific, as they directly depended on the mentee’s expectations and goals. Ultimately, my only expectation was to be able to meet the mentee’s needs and feel that, in some way, our sessions were useful to her.”
“I take with me the friendship and my contact with the diversity of cultural professionals.”
“The relationship created with my mentee, with whom I had a great affinity from the beginning. Besides the sessions within the programme, we were fortunate to be together in one of Acesso Cultura’s training courses, and I think that brought us much closer because we were able to be together in a different context.”
“The feeling that my professional and personal experience can, in some way, help other professionals (to avoid repeating the same mistakes, to open perspectives and doors, etc.)”
