Applications extended for the NAPCaRN mentoring program – Now closing 13 August

The Northern Australian Plant Capacity and Response Network (NAPCaRN) have extended the closing date for applications for their mentoring program to Sunday 13 August, 2023.

Information on the mentoring program:

The program is open to individuals from government, industry and indigenous organisations who are engaged in roles that have some engagement or involvement in biosecurity, leadership, or who are committed to building capacity in northern Australia.

There are many benefits that can be realised through mentoring, including:

• Increased self-confidence
• Increased self-awareness and capacity to self-reflect
• Improved communication, listening and questioning skills
• Enhanced networks and connections
• Exposure to new and different perspectives
• Improved goal-setting skills
• The opportunity to learn from someone else’s experience
• Increased job satisfaction.

Feedback from other programs has indicated that mentees feel greater confidence in approaching people and opportunities in different ways and with renewed self-belief. Mentors have indicated that these programs provide a rewarding way to share expertise, knowledge and experience and to help others to achieve success. It is also recognised as an opportunity for mentors to learn more about themselves. As such, mentoring leads to greater self-awareness and growth for both parties.

The program is open to individuals of any age, gender, cultural group, background, socio-economic status, job level, or ability. Those in regional and remote areas are encouraged to apply. While preference will be given to those in northern locations, applicants from other locations may also be accepted into the program.

The program will commence in September 2023 and conclude in June 2024. During the program, the mentoring pairs will meet a minimum of six times over the eight month period. It is anticipated that the meetings will be held virtually; however for those located in the same town/region, there may be opportunity for face-to-face meetings as well.

To be successful, mentees need to fill out the Expression of Interest form and submit this to NABS@aff.gov.au by COB 13 August 2023. Selection for the program will be made by a panel. The panel will give preference to those mentee applicants who can demonstrate greatest commitment to the program through demonstrating their awareness of areas for development and a clear articulation of their goals in the Expression of Interest (attached).

Mentors are also asked to fill out an expression of interest form and submit it to the email address above by COB 13 August 2023.

Once mentees have been selected, the Expressions of Interest forms from potential mentors will be circulated to the mentees, who will confidentially select their preferred mentors for the program based on their goals and areas for development. The panel will then endeavour to pair mentors and mentees on their preferences.

All participants will need to commit to the program, which includes the ability to attend the half day online training program, a willingness to prepare and plan for meetings, attendance at meetings, and commitment to follow up on any actions arising from the meetings. It should also be noted that mentoring programs may create personal and professional growth for participants and it will be important for participants to have space and time to work through these avenues of inquiry. For those who don’t feel they can commit to a minimum of two hours per month (possibly more), it might be best to postpone this mentoring opportunity until you have more time to commit fully.

A half day induction and facilitated workshop session will be held for mentors and mentees to help prepare for the program in September/October. This will establish roles, responsibilities, and expectations and will provide some tools to assist with the program.

Individuals may apply to be both a mentor and mentee, but please note the time commitment that would be required if you choose to do this.

If you have any questions, please contact Anne Walters (anne.walters@nt.gov.au or 0429 097 057).