Would-be applicants he 2023 Wine Industry Mentor Program have only a couple of days left to apply, with the window for applications closing on Friday, 31 March.
Individuals looking to build long-lasting connections in their grape and wine career encouraged to apply.
The mentor program aims to pair professionals who are near the start of their grape and wine career with respected wine sector leaders. People working across viticulture, winemaking, research, logistics, marketing, media and many other areas are encouraged to apply, with the program providing the opportunity to connect with like minded people.
The 2023 program is supported by the Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology (ASVO), University of Adelaide, Wine Australia, Wine Industry Suppliers Association (WISA) and Wine Communicators of Australia (WCA).
In statement the program stated: “Benefits for participants are varied, and have included career progression, opportunities to expand networks, developing confidence, and taking on leadership or other professional development pathways, as well as fostering a renewed commitment amongst participants to their region, role, and opportunities for future success.”
The program started in 2019 and so far more than 160 people have been mentored with many continuing their relationship following the program.
This year’s program has already had more than 50 well-known wine industry experts volunteer to mentor participants in 2023, including Max Allen (wine writer), Samantha Connew (Stargazer Wines), Tony Robinson (AWRI) and Angus Hughson (Winepilot).
Third-time mentor in 2022, Gary Baldwin said: “I have gained greater insight into how the younger generation sees itself and their particular issues and concerns, and I’m learning to be a better listener.”
The program, which will run over a period of six months from June to November 2023, consists of monthly one-on-one sessions with a mentor and access to a range of resources through the program’s world-class online mentoring platform, as well as access to a range of industry subject matter experts to help address specific mentoring needs.
Emily Fitzgerald was mentored in 2022, and she said: “I will be starting a new job in export marketing within my company in the new year. I can thank my mentor for that.”
Applications will close on 31 March and can be made through the Wine Communicators of Australia website.
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