Women in business in Exeter are being encouraged to take part in a new mentoring initiative to inspire the next generation of female leaders.
The Empowering Girls Programme is now in its sixth year and is looking for fresh volunteers to take part.
The award-nominated programme pairs female mentors with secondary school girls to build confidence, raise aspirations, and break down gender stereotypes around future careers.
Over the past year alone, the programme has supported more than 140 girls across 14 schools in Exeter, Plymouth and Torbay, with demand continuing to grow.
Now, more mentors are needed to ensure every girl has access to the guidance and encouragement they deserve.
Mentors commit to meeting with a student for regular one-to-one sessions during the academic year, discussing everything from career options to building resilience and tackling challenges. The minimum commitment is six sessions over a term with one girl. No previous mentoring experience is required - just a willingness to listen, share experiences, and support a young person’s journey.
And while the programme can have a life-changing impact on mentees, mentors consistently report gaining just as much from the experience. Benefits include:
- Developing mentoring and coaching skills
- Expanding professional networks
- Improving confidence and communication
- Making a meaningful contribution to the local community
One mentor reflected: “It was so rewarding to see my mentee become more relaxed and confident with each session. When she told me, ‘I am a good person and I believe in myself,’ it made me incredibly proud. Volunteering my time has been fulfilling and built my own confidence too.”
With the support of schools, businesses, and community partners, Empowering Girls is creating lasting change - but its success depends on more women stepping forward to mentor.
Empowering Girls is managed by the Devon, Plymouth & Torbay Careers Hub and their team is supported by a volunteer advisory panel of mentor and school representatives.
Women in business in Devon and particularly in Exeter or Plymouth who want to make a difference, can contact empoweringgirls@devon.gov.uk for more information.
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