Telemachus and Athena Mentoring Programme 2027

Applications are open for the 2027 Telemachus and Athena Mentoring Programme, an international mentoring initiative organised by the Global Thinkers Forum (GTF). The programme connects emerging leaders with experienced professionals and thought leaders who can provide guidance on personal development, career planning and leadership.

The initiative has two pathways. Telemachus is designed for young people aged 18 to 29 from around the world, while Athena is intended for women above the age of 22, with no upper age limit. Both programmes offer participants an opportunity to develop their abilities through personalised mentoring over an eight month period.

The 2027 cycle is open to eligible applicants internationally. Participants will be matched with mentors whose professional experience and expertise align with their interests and development needs. The programme is particularly relevant to people interested in leadership, entrepreneurship, business, public service, academia and social impact.

About the Telemachus and Athena Mentoring Programme

The Telemachus and Athena Mentoring Programme is an initiative of the Global Thinkers Forum, an organisation focused on supporting leadership, positive change and the development of future leaders.

The programmes are built around the idea that experienced professionals can help emerging leaders navigate important personal and professional decisions. Through mentoring relationships, participants receive guidance, learn from the experiences of established individuals and gain perspectives that can support their future goals.

Telemachus focuses on young people who are developing their careers, pursuing entrepreneurial activities or contributing to their communities. Participants may include recent graduates, young professionals, social entrepreneurs, volunteers and community activists.

Athena provides a similar development opportunity for women over the age of 22. It is intended for women at different stages of their professional and personal journeys, including graduates, entrepreneurs and established professionals who want to strengthen their leadership abilities and broaden their perspectives.

Programme Benefits

Participants can gain several professional and personal development benefits through the mentoring experience.

Key benefits include:

• Personalised mentorship: Receive guidance from an experienced professional whose knowledge and background align with your development interests.
• Career development: Gain insights into career planning, professional decisions and opportunities for growth.
• Leadership skills: Strengthen your ability to think critically, communicate effectively and take responsibility.
• New perspectives: Learn from someone with different professional experiences and viewpoints.
• Professional network: Become part of the wider Global Thinkers Forum community.
• Completion certificate: Receive a certificate after successfully completing the programme.
• Optional internship: Participants may have the opportunity to undertake an optional three month internship with the Global Thinkers Forum.

Mentorship Areas

The Global Thinkers Forum works with mentors who have professional experience and established careers in different sectors. The matching process considers the mentee's interests and the mentor's areas of expertise.

Indicative areas of mentorship include:

• Governance and public office.
• Accountable leadership.
• Media and communications.
• Business and entrepreneurship.
• Corporate careers.
• Academia and research.
• Nonprofit organisations.
• Science and related professional fields.

Eligibility Requirements

The programme has separate eligibility criteria for its two pathways.

Telemachus

Applicants must:

• Be between 18 and 29 years old.
• Be interested in personal development, leadership or professional growth.
• Have a genuine motivation to learn from an experienced mentor.
• Be willing to participate actively throughout the eight month cycle.

Athena

Applicants must:

• Be women above the age of 22.
• Have an interest in professional, personal or leadership development.
• Be willing to engage consistently with an assigned mentor.
• Demonstrate motivation and commitment to the mentoring process.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit their applications through the Global Thinkers Forum's official mentee application page.

Follow these steps:

1. Visit the application page: Open the official Global Thinkers Forum mentee application portal.
2. Choose the appropriate programme: Review the eligibility requirements and identify whether you qualify for Telemachus or Athena.
3. Prepare your motivation statement: Explain why you want to participate, what you hope to learn and how mentoring could support your personal or professional development.
4. Complete the application questionnaire: Provide the requested personal, educational and professional information. Ensure your answers are accurate and clearly explain your interests.
5. Review your submission: Check that you meet the relevant age requirements and have provided all requested information.
6. Submit before the deadline: Complete the online application process by November 23, 2026.