“My experience so far on the mentoring scheme has already exceeded my expectations. The first session gave me the space to ask questions that I've always wanted to know, without any judgement whatsoever and I've learnt so much from listening to my mentor's career experiences. I'm already looking forward to my next session!" said Hetty Quirke, MYP Alumni

The six month long scheme will provide an opportunity to exchange perspectives around improving and understanding diversity and inclusion within teams.  Over the course of four to six meetings during the expected time frame the mentors and mentees will work on developing performance through shared knowledge as well as expanding their networks.

MAMA Youth Project Director of Operations, Cristina Ciobanu commented, “We have been overwhelmed by the high calibre of industry professionals who have come forward to commit their time to the development of our alumni, especially now when everyone is facing unprecedented challenges.  

Of course our 50 mentoring pairs have had to adjust the way they conduct their sessions in line with the current social distancing guidelines, but at a time when so many people are having to manage such uncertainty it’s more important than ever to engage in positive industry led conversations and create a community of participants to encourage peer-to-peer support.”

MYP alumni and Production Runner at Vertigo, Ben Watkin-Wynn said, “I’m so glad that I signed up for the mentor scheme early this year especially due to the circumstances we are in now. My mentor has provided me with some amazing industry contacts to expand my network with goals that feel achievable. He’s been invaluable in motivating me to be productive through the lockdown and I know it will lead onto some great things.”

50 high profile mentors were selected from a variety of genres across MAMA Youth’s industry partners including BBC, Sky, Fremantle and Warner Bros. Commissioning Editors, Senior Producers, Directors, Department Heads and Talent Managers are among the roles represented as part of the scheme.  Sky Sports Senior Director, Sara Chenery commented, “It’s wonderful to see ScreenSkills collaborating with the MAMA Youth Project on this and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my experience as well as to receive valuable feedback and learn from my mentee.  This is a much needed programme which I can envisage having huge long term benefits for all.”