You've got questions,
We've got answers
You've got questions,
- General
Q: Who is eligible to participate in Mentor Match?
A: As Mentor Match is designed for young emerging artists and creatives as well as young people seeking general mentorship, you must be between the ages of 14-29 to participate as a mentee. Mentor Match accepts all artists, creatives, general mentorship seekers, creative and professionals across various fields in the role of a mentor.
Q: Do I have to pay for Mentor Match?
A: No, Mentor Match is a FREE youth based program for mentees ages 13-29 who reside in the GTA and mentors who are well-established in their line of work.
Q: How are mentees and mentors connected?
A: Mentoring relationships are formed through the Xinspire platform and through the support of Nia Centre staff. After being approved into the program, the platform recommends individuals with similar interests and goals as you and will encourage you to send them a message. Nia Centre staff will also guide and assist in connecting you with a mentoring partner.
- For Mentees
Q: I messaged a mentor, but did not receive a response. What should I do?
A: Allow your mentor time to respond. If they have not replied to your message after 7 days, connect in with a Nia Centre staff member and they will support you in getting connected with a mentor.
Q: Can I reach out to more than one mentor?
A: Yes, you are able to connect in with more than one mentor. It is important that you take some time to reflect on the purpose and needs of each mentor that you are connecting in with and ensure that you can make the time commitment. If you need support outlining your goals, connect in with a Nia Centre staff member and they will be able to provide you with support.
Q: How often should I meet with my mentor after connecting?
A: After connecting with your mentor, take some time to discuss your schedules. You can schedule five 1-hour sessions or more with your mentor to begin your mentorship. Sessions can be in person, through video chat or by phone. Scheduling can be flexible. However, we recommend that you complete all your sessions within a 3-month time frame.
- For Mentors
Q: What if a mentee does not reach out to me?
A: Oftentimes, it can be nerve-wracking for a mentee to message a mentor. If a mentee does not send you a message to connect, reach out to a Nia Centre staff member and they will be able to provide further support and guidance to get you connected with a mentee.
Q: How come I can't see mentees' profiles?
A: To encourage mentees to initiate the first contact with a mentor, mentors are not able to see a mentee's profile until they connect in with them. However, mentors can see other Creative Connect mentors' profiles.
Q: Do I receive compensation in the role of a mentor?
A: Mentors who participate in Matched Mentorships and Group Connects will receive an honorarium at the end of the mentorship in recognition of their time commitment.