Refugee Mentorship program

Breaking barriers through international collaboration

Watch a video about our Mentorship Program

What is the Mentorship Program?

We believe that education is only a first step towards improving each student’s prospects. It is just as important to develop these skills into something tangible. Through our mentorship program, top students work with industry professionals to turn their raw talents into marketable skills. Each student is a recent graduate of Solidarity Initiative for Refugees (SIR)’s advanced programming course “Code Dust”, which focuses on Javascript, React and HTML. 

During the initial period, mentors act as teachers, providing exercises and insight into how to improve the student’s skill set. As the refugee mentorship program advances, the mentors help students put these skills into practice through concrete projects and tasks, which often include ideas to help support their community. Mentors will also provide advice on pursuing a career in the tech industry. 

Every relationship is unique and grows stronger over time, offering a transformative experience for both mentors and mentees. For mentors, it’s an opportunity to step out of their comfort zones, gain fresh perspectives, and embrace cultural insights. For mentees, it can be a life-changing and crucial factor in achieving their career aspirations.

How can I apply?

To apply for the mentorship program, fill out the contact form below or send us an email at info@source-network.org. 

We will compare each application to the skills needed for the program and work to match you with a student. Once we have identified a potential match, we will contact you to organise a video call with a member of our team. Should you no longer be able to become a mentor, you can request to delete your information at any time.

Please provide the following information listed to help us properly evaluate your application:

  • Age
  • Gender
  • Nationality
  • Languages (and respective proficiency levels)
  • Professional and educational background
  • Any programming/tech skills

How does it work?

Mentees: We select mentees from our graduated students in cooperation with the local team. Our team then has a phone call with each mentee to introduce the program and understand their motivations. 

Mentors: After receiving each application we identify those with the required skill set for the program. Once selected for a shortlist, we organize phone calls to learn more about you and why you would like to be a part of the program. 

Matching: We match individuals with similar personalities and skill matches. We believe compatibility is vital in developing these relationships.

Curriculum: We advise and assist mentor pairings in developing tangible objectives that will most benefit each student.

Commitment: The refugee mentorship program will last a minimum of 6 months with the possibility to continue if both parties agree.

Communication: While at the computer centre, students will be connected to the central wifi. As part of the refugee mentorship program, we also provide students with up to 1 GB of mobile data to ensure mentors can always reach the mentee.

Tools: We will advise mentors and mentees on what freely available online tools are helpful for the mentorship. 

What skills do I need?

The skills required for a successful mentorship vary. But the following skills have proven to be very useful in fostering positive mentor-mentee relationships: 

  • Above beginner-level proficiency in at least one popular programming language (Javascript, HTML, CSS, Python, C, SQL, etc.). 
  • Basic familiarity with GitHub. 
  • Knowledge of some common, preferable free tools or workflows in a relevant industry (e.g. Node.js, React, Bootstrap, Anaconda, .NET, Bash, etc.). 
  • Good communication skills, patience, and an open-minded attitude. 

Become a mentor!

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