Mentoring Partnerships

Throughout history, African village elders have shared their knowledge, passing on what they know to the next generation. AWARD mentoring builds on this tradition. Every fellow is carefully matched with a senior professional who serves as her mentor for one to two years. Together, they set their goals and meet at least once a month.

Hundreds of Africa’s most senior leaders in agriculture—both men and women—volunteer their time as mentors to AWARD Fellows. In exchange, mentors are offered the opportunity to participate in two of AWARD’s special events, such as courses in leadership or research proposal writing.

During the second year of an AWARD Fellowship, fellows with advanced degrees reach a new level of experience. These more experienced fellows become mentors to junior scientists in their institutions, “sharing forward” what they have learned. This creates a ripple effect, spreading the benefits of AWARD to yet hundreds more young women.