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Celebrating National Mentoring Month

Annelise Patterson

Written by: Veronica Aguilar, MBA; Vice President, Teach For America; Founder & Chair, Young & Empowered Women; VYP Board Member

As we step into the new year, January not only marks the beginning of a fresh start but also serves as a reminder of the invaluable role that mentors play in shaping lives. National Mentoring Month is a time to celebrate the profound impact mentors have on individuals and communities.

Celebrate the Mentorship Milestones:

I am a Mentor Day (January 7):

  • On this day, mentors worldwide are celebrated for their commitment to guiding and uplifting others. Share your mentorship stories, acknowledge the mentors who have made a difference, and inspire others to embark on their own mentorship journeys.

International Mentoring Day (January 17):

  • Take a moment to reflect on the global impact of mentorship. Recognize the diversity of mentoring relationships and the collective effort to create a positive ripple effect across borders, industries, and generations.

Thank Your Mentor Day (January 21):

  • Express gratitude to the mentors who have shaped your journey. Whether through a heartfelt message, a small token of appreciation, or a simple “thank you,” take the time to acknowledge the mentors who have played a pivotal role in your personal and professional growth.

There are several organizations that celebrate the power of mentorship.

Young & Empowered Women (Y&E) is a nonprofit organization that works to close the gender gap by providing professional development, mentorship, and networking opportunities for a diverse group of rising female leaders. Y&E has a formal mentorship program that connects its members to powerhouse community mentors.

“A mentor/mentee relationship is so unique because you are helping someone set goals, overcome obstacles, and support them in their personal and professional journey. The best part of being a mentor is the relationship that is built and when you get to celebrate each other’s success and wins,” said Amber Cordoba, Young & Empowered Women mentor and Director of Business Education and Consulting Services at Prestamos CDFI.

Amber has been mentoring Sagee Palavivatana-Smith, a Y&E mentee and Development and Events Coordinator at the Greater Phoenix Chamber, for the past year.

Sagee is incredibly thankful for her relationship with Amber and has learned so much about a mentor/mentee relationship. “I would advise new mentors and mentees to be vulnerable, open and flexible. I have learned so much from Amber and I think it’s because of the way we have built a strong foundation of trust and respect.”

Learn about other organizations that have mentorship programs and opportunities: