The 'So Me Mu' Mentorship Program has been introduced by the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) under the Innovation in Non-Traditional Vocational Education and Skills Training (INVEST).
The "So Me Mu" Mentorship Program strives to pair young women enrolled in TVET programs where men predominate with technical experts in industries including energy, extractives, and construction for support, mentorship, and direction.
Accelerating the personal and professional development of mentors and mentees is one of the program's main goals, as is fostering a community of young female technical professionals who can connect, share knowledge, and develop.
Through the training seminars that will be held for them, chosen mentors will be acknowledged for their volunteerism, grow their professional networks, and acquire new skills.
Speaking at the launch in Kumasi, Juliana Ohenewaa Amoako-Twum (Public Engagement and Advocacy Advisor, INVEST) said that the project is working closely with partners and sector actors to create an environment that will enable young women to participate and thrive in trade areas that are dominated by men and are lucrative and rewarding, offering excellent opportunities for women to improve their economic circumstances.
"We are optimistic that social norms and unfavorable public perceptions that have prevented women from entering high-growth industries are progressively being overcome through strategic interventions like the WUSC INVEST in her campaign, a mindset change initiative designed to engage the public at all levels in embracing the need to empower women and support them in choosing their careers regardless of how the norms have evolved over the year.
In order to do this, we think that mentorship is one of the most reliable strategies to make sure that these young women are resilient, debunk false beliefs, and change unfavorable social norms that prevent women from participating in industries with a predominance of men. Mentorship in all facets of life makes a substantial contribution to succession planning and creates a lasting legacy for future generations, according to her.
A common Akan proverb, "So Me Mu," which means "hold me up" or "support me," emphasizes that everyone needs someone to thrive and has many profound, thought-provoking connotations.
A few women who are currently exhibiting interest in fields dominated by men can have their stories changed with the help of knowledgeable, experienced, and motivated mentors.
The mentoring program is available to mentors who are enthusiastic about offering coaching and guidance support to designated mentees for a minimum of three months. Young women in Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi will be able to get mentorship through in-person and online sessions.
To learn more about the program and to submit an application, interested candidates may click the following link.http://www.theinvestproject.com/mentorship