The Pink Boots Society Australia has officially opened nominations for its 2025 Mentor Program, aiming to boost career development among women and non-binary individuals in the fermentation sector. This annual initiative invites both mentors and mentees to participate, fostering connections across diverse roles within beer, wine, and spirits industries. Eligibility criteria emphasize experience levels, with mentees needing at least three years of professional exposure and mentors requiring over a decade of expertise. Guided by brewery co-founder Jayne Lewis, the program seeks to create meaningful partnerships that transcend geographical boundaries, focusing instead on skill alignment and compatibility.
At the helm of this year's mentorship drive is Jayne Lewis, who recently established Full Colour Life after departing from Two Birds Brewing. Her vision emphasizes inclusivity, encouraging participation from professionals spanning all facets of the industry—from hospitality and sales to technical and business domains. “We’re seeking a broad spectrum of participants,” Jayne notes, highlighting the importance of diversity in mentor-mentee pairings. With fewer networking opportunities available compared to previous years, the program serves as a vital platform for forging connections that might otherwise remain unformed.
Jayne underscores the mutual benefits inherent in the mentorship model. For mentees, it offers unparalleled access to seasoned industry experts, providing guidance tailored to individual career aspirations. Meanwhile, mentors gain fulfillment through nurturing emerging talent and contributing meaningfully to the community. Joanna Weaver, a venue manager at Moon Dog Brewery and last year’s participant, attests to these advantages. Initially uncertain about navigating her five-year career plan, Joanna credits the program with clarifying her path and reinforcing the value of aligning personal values with professional goals.
Beyond specific career trajectories, the initiative encourages engagement even when significant changes aren’t immediately sought. Joanna advocates for proactive participation, asserting, “You don’t need to be searching for drastic shifts to benefit from mentorship.” By embracing such opportunities, individuals can uncover new insights and enhance their professional journeys regardless of current circumstances.
Through its comprehensive approach, the Pink Boots Mentor Program not only addresses immediate career needs but also cultivates enduring relationships within the fermentation community. Aspiring mentees are invited to join the society if they haven’t already, unlocking access to transformative experiences designed to elevate their careers. By prioritizing connection and collaboration, the program exemplifies how shared knowledge empowers growth across the industry landscape.