Become an AIDA mentor

Remember that first person who saw the potential in you, recognized your talent, listened, reflected with you, and helped you open the heavy doors when you were at the very start of your career?

Could it be your turn to be that person now?

What

We are seeking six dedicated mentor volunteers to support AIDA’s employees in building their careers in Finland, their new home country. This is the second AIDA Mentorship Programme, and following the great results from the first round, we have decided to launch a new program for new AIDA members.

The AIDA Impact Mentorship Programme will run for 9 months, during which mentors will meet with our team members approximately 5 times.

Together, you will define the goals for your collaboration, which can range from recognizing strengths and talents to mapping work opportunities and providing concrete support with job application processes. The goals may also encompass other aspects of integration into Finnish society. Our primary aim is for the mentor program to be a valuable learning experience for both mentors and mentees.

You can become an AIDA mentor, if

• You are passionate about creating a more diverse and equal Finland and enjoy meeting new people
• You are a solution-oriented individual who sees opportunities rather than problems
• You can commit to meeting face-to-face approximately 5 times during 2024-25 in the Helsinki area. Meetings will be held at AIDA’s studio in Punavuori or a location of your choice
• You have networks and some level of work-life knowledge in Finland, in any sector
• You can communicate in English. Additional useful languages include Ukrainian, Russian Farsi and Arabic
• No prior mentoring experience is required; we will provide you with all the necessary tools and support

• Strengthening both the mentees’ and the mentors’ skills and knowhow/professional profile
• Invitations to AIDA’s events
• Inspiring encounters with other members of the AIDA community
• An opportunity to have an impact and do something meaningful together

Next steps

• Mentorship Programme starts in November and continues for the following 9 months

How to apply

Are you interested? Please leave your contact info and a short description of your background. All the applications are handled with confidence. In all the questions please contact Elina Siira, elina@aidaimpact.com.

Why

At AIDA we strive to further support our team members’ integration and career opportunities in Finland, but we need your help to achieve this mission. AIDA provides the first employment opportunity in a new country (learn more about AIDA and our impact work). However, many of our team members have the capability and passion to work in their respective fields. Unfortunately, breaking into the Finnish job market can be challenging for non-natives.

According to research, Finland is notorious for being one of the most difficult countries to find employment if you are a woman and/or a mother with an immigrant background (OECD, 2018). About 65% of women with immigrant backgrounds fall outside the working life (EMN report 2022). This is not only unfair, but also a lost opportunity for the whole Finnish society (Statistic Finland 2023). We just cannot afford to keep on failing when it comes to integration.

Join us in the first steps of making the work life in Finland more diverse, inclusive and competitive.

We hope to hear from you!