Mentorship Program
About the Program
The NAAAHR Chicago Mentorship Program connects early-career professionals and students with experienced HR and business leaders. This initiative creates space for learning, career growth, and community building within the Black HR community.
The program runs October 2025 – May 2026 and matches mentees with mentors based on interests and skills.
Who Should Join?
Mentees
Early in their career or still in school
Looking for guidance, career advice, and professional development
Mentors
At least 5 years of professional experience
Preferably with an HR or business background
Interested in giving back and helping shape the next generation of HR leaders
How It Works?
Mentor–mentee pairs connect at least once per month (virtually, in person, or by phone).
Each month features themes and topics to guide the conversations, such as:
Interview Skills – prep, behavioral questions, onboarding strategies
Resume & Personal Branding – resume tips, LinkedIn optimization, elevator pitch
Self-Advocacy & Communication – assertiveness, feedback, storytelling, navigating tough conversations
Career Mapping – vision planning, SMART goals, aligning values with career paths
What are the Benefits?
For Mentees
Direct access to HR leaders outside their current organization
Honest feedback and actionable career guidance
Exposure to real-world HR insights and strategies
For Mentors
A chance to give back to the community
Fresh perspectives from emerging professionals
Personal growth and leadership development through teaching and coaching
Matching Process
For Mentees
Direct access to HR leaders outside their current organization
Honest feedback and actionable career guidance
Exposure to real-world HR insights and strategies
For Mentors
A chance to give back to the community
Fresh perspectives from emerging professionals
Personal growth and leadership development through teaching and coaching
Dear Members,
We’re excited to share that the NAAAHR Chicago Mentorship Program sign-up form is now live — linked here!
This pilot program will run from October 15, 2025 through late May 2026, and is designed to support growth, connection, and development across our industry.
Key Dates:
Sign-Up Deadline: September 30
Kickoff Event: October 15 (Virtual)
Program Duration: October 15 – Late May
This program is structured around monthly check-ins, with suggested discussion topics provided to help guide meaningful conversations between mentors and mentees.
Whether you’re looking to mentor or be mentored, we encourage you to sign up and take part in this enriching experience.
If you have any questions or need help deciding how to participate, feel free to reach out! We have also attached a Mentorship Guidebook which highlights the program and FAQs.
Warmly,
NAAAHR Chicago
