G15 Diverse Development and Sales Mentorship Programme is now open

First year success

Eighty-three percent of feedback received from our 2022/23 cohort agreed that this programme fulfilled their expectations in its inaugural year.

Following a successful launch, the G15 and UNIFY Network are excited to announce the continuation of its mentoring programme, designed to empower talented Black, Asian, and ethnically diverse colleagues to become tomorrow's leaders.

This impactful initiative has gained notable traction since its launch and is now entering its second year with even greater enthusiasm.

Alozie Ohuonu, Project Lead for UNIFY Network, says:

"We passionately believe that this programme is one of the important ways in which we can help to increase representation.

“Mentoring can be a powerful catalyst for career development and shared experiences.”

Insight from those involved

Open to individuals from ethnically diverse backgrounds working in Development and Sales, this programme offers a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth. Last year’s mentees:

Coretta Scott said:

“This programme exceeded my expectations as my mentor guided me and listened to my concerns and aspirations.

"I have progressed positively within my team, and this is partly due to the amazing advice and support provided by my mentor Maria Ashford, Head of Development Finance at L&Q.’’

Cezar Vintila said:

“I am hungry to grow and develop and being part of this programme is absolutely fabulous. I cannot express in words how grateful I am.

"It was a fabulous experience and the learning curve involved here helped to develop myself as a professional, as a manager but also to support my team and feedback into the wider organisation. My mentor John Hughes, Deputy CEO at Notting Hill Genesis has been absolutely amazing”.

The mentorship programme will run for a flexible duration of 6 to 12 months, allowing participants to benefit from invaluable insights, guidance, and support from experienced mentors who have witnessed the programme's transformative effects first-hand.

Mentor, Bunmi Atta, Director of Construction at Southern Housing, who helped set up the programme, said:

“I really believe that mentoring can help springboard careers. Those of us who have attained senior positions have a duty, and indeed desire, to support colleagues develop their careers.

"We’ve brought together some of the top voices in our sector to share their knowledge and experience."

Apply now – applications are open

Applications for 2023/24 are now open and it’s free.

To apply all you have to do is submit an application and register yourself as a volunteer on the UNIFY website.

Join us and together, let's make the housing sector a model of diversity, inclusion and empowerment.

The closing date for applications is 19 September 2023.