What is Girl Connected and Girl Connected Mentorship Program?

Girl Connected is an organization that seeks to empower determined female professionals with a multilevel, local to global platform that provides the necessary framework towards
professional success, inspiration, and growth. The Girl Connected Mentorship Program (GCMP) is an application based program currently only available in Canada.



Who is this program intended for?

This program is intended for women who are interested in pursuing a professional career in the entertainment industry. For 2021 our focus is label services, artist management, events, and public relations. Applicants will be paired with an instructor in their field of interest, that will help them complete their projects, advise them on their goals, and offer insight on the day to day operations of their job.



If I’m unsure of whether I am a good candidate for this mentorship, should I still apply?

We encourage you to fill out an application for the mentorship, even if you are unsure about your experience and interests. Our group of mentees ranges from those who have extensive experience to those who have no previous experience or certainty in their career interests. We encourage applicants to keep this in mind when deciding to apply as there is always an opportunity to learn and grow within our mentorship program.



Is there an age limit to apply?

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. There is no age maximum.



Do I have to live in Canada to apply for the mentorship?

Yes. You have to live, study, or work in Canada during the time of your participation in the program.



How much does this program cost?

Currently there are no fees associated with the program. However, regulations & application processes are subject to change each year.



Is there any other programming outside of the Mentorship Program that I can participate in if I don’t live in Canada?

Yes. Girl Connected organizes workshops, conversations, and other globally accessible programming for our community. Our goal is to build a network of professionals and provide tools and resources necessary to succeed.Please check our events calendar on our website, or our socials to stay up to date with our planning.



Do I need to have experience in the music business to apply for the mentorship program?

Although we recommend that applicants have previous experience in the music industry, we welcome applicants of all experience levels. We do suggest that applicants have an understanding of their current interests in the industry and where they would like to focus their mentorship.



How much of my time will be required for the mentorship program?

You will be required to participate in bi weekly-monthly zoom meetings, mandatory workshops, and one final presentation/project. You will be required to work alone, and in a group.



How will this mentorship program be facilitated?

At this time, our GCMP program will be facilitated in a predominantly virtual setting due to the current global circumstances. Participants will require access to a computer and phone. Meeting space on softwares such as Zoom is provided by GCMP. If and when circumstances permit us to return to in-person activity, we will adjust our suitable programming as needed and participants will be required to attend in person activities such as workshops, meetings, and networking events.



How are mentoring matches made?

Once accepted into the program, applicants are paired with an instructor in their field of interest after the GCMP Program Leads have reviewed their application in detail and completed their 1 on 1 interviews. This process determines the best fit based on the applicant’s choice, interests and experience as well as each instructor's background and focus in the program.



How do the instructors and mentees work together?

Mentees will have the opportunity to connect with their instructor several times throughout the duration of the program, both in a group and individual setting. The mentee and instructor relationship is facilitated by the program lead and works on a scheduled and structured basis for best results throughout the term.



Are there assignments or projects that will be evaluated in the program?

This program has two components - personal and professional development. For optimal personal growth, you will have the opportunity to direct questions, concerns, and discuss ideas with our program lead, as well as inquire about 1 on 1 time and consultation with mentors in our community. As a professional, you will be required to complete at least 1 assignment or project that you will present to a group of peers for feedback and advice.



What does my essay need to focus on?

The written component is one of the most important items in the requirements. Your resume tells us your experience, the recommendation letter gives us an idea of how you work with others, and your essay gives us a glimpse of what you want to do. We want to know about what inspires you, what your goals are, how this program could help you, and what your future plans are. This way we can be as informed as possible when aligning you with our instructors. The essay doesn’t have to be formal, it just needs to reflect your objective clearly.



Who should I get a recommendation letter from? Is it mandatory?

We understand that reference letters can be tough to get because everyone is busy. This is optional and you do not have to submit one. However, if provided it will give us a better picture of who you are and how you work with others. You can ask a teacher, a business partner, a co-worker, a supervisor or a collaborator; someone that can speak to your work ethic, drive, professionalism, and integrity.



What will I gain from this mentorship experience?

After completing the Girl Connected Mentorship Program, participants will gain an enhanced professional and personal identity and defined direction on their next professional steps. GCMP Mentees will complete program assignments, attend the auxiliary workshops, participate in one on one sessions, and complete a final presentation. Upon completion, mentees will have tangible, distinct skills ready to be applied to their individual projects and careers. GCMP Graduates will be connected to their community of peers, alumni and GC Guides as well as have new connections to potential employers, career opportunities and collaborations within the industry.



Will completing this mentorship result in a job within the industry post program?

This is not a job placement program, though we will do our best to help you identify the right career path for you, assist you in your job search, and provide you with the appropriate recommendation should a job opportunity come up.



How do I become a mentor?

If you are interested in becoming involved with GCMP as a mentor or program contributor, please reach out to us at sayhi@beagirlconnected.com, please include a brief pitch as well as your contact information.