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NRL, in collaboration with in-Cumbria, is pleased to introduce the She Leads mentor programme, an exciting new initiative aimed at empowering women across Cumbria. Now open for applications, this free 12-month programme offers invaluable career and personal development support through one-to-one mentoring with accomplished female leaders from some of the region’s most prestigious businesses.
How does the She Leads mentor programme work?
6 people will be chosen and paired with a local female business leader, to form mentor partnerships. Each mentor has committed to providing 2 hours of support each month over the 12-month programme. How this time is spent is for the participants to discuss with their mentors, who may decide a 2-hour face to face session is the best use of time or opt for several online meetings across the month. The She Leads programme structure is flexible, which also extends to the goals and objectives mentees set for themselves.
Who can apply to be a mentee?
She Leads is designed to be inclusive, welcoming applications from women at any stage of their professional journey. Whether you are just starting out, looking to advance into leadership, returning to work after a career break, or even running your own business, this initiative provides tailored guidance to help you achieve your goals. The only entry requirements are that applicants must be over 18 and reside in Cumbria.
When do mentee applications close?
The 2025 programme is now open for entries and if you’re interested in applying to take part then you have until Friday 23rd May to submit an application.
What will I be asked during the application process?
We’ll need to you to confirm that you live in Cumbria, by providing your home address. Then we’ll ask you for some more information about yourself and what you want to get out of the mentor programme, such as your current challenges and what success will look like for you at the end of She Leads.
We’ll also ask you what industry sector you currently work in, but if you are not currently in employment this is not a problem as the programme is open to anyone regardless of their employment status.
NRL and in-Cumbria will follow the progress of participants throughout the programme, so you’ll also be asked to confirm you’re happy to be involved in publicity relating to the mentor programme including the use of photography.
Who are the mentors taking part in the She Leads programme?
We’re delighted to welcome on board female leaders from across the region who will be joining She Leads as our mentors. Each of them brings experience and expertise across a wide range of sectors, as well as being able to share their career progress, often in male dominated sectors.
Gill Haigh, Managing Director of Cumbria Tourism
Rachel Seal, Recovery Solutions Director at David Allen
Joy Yates, Regional Group Editor of in-Cumbria/Newsquest
Kelly Ashbridge, Communication, PR and Partnerships Lead at Cumberland Building Society
Sharon Brook, Head of Sales, North Lakes Hotel & Spa and Langdale Chase Hotel
Rebecca Graves, Director at NRL
When will the She Leads mentor programme start?
Once the application deadline closes, submissions will be carefully reviewed and mentees selected. The programme will commence on Monday 9th June, as mentees are introduced to their mentors.
Who are NRL?
We’ve been supporting businesses in Cumbria with recruitment support for over 40 years, and our local Rebecca Graves is Cumbrian-born and passionate about helping women succeed.
"Through the She Leads mentor programme our aim is to provide a platform for our female business leaders to be able to share their expertise to help those in the community who are looking to build their own careers. It’s something I’m deeply passionate about and having spoken to other business leaders know that they too share the same interest in helping others progress. Creating mutually beneficial relationships and helping to raise up Cumbria.
It’s an exciting initiative that we can’t wait to get started, and we hope it resonates with women who are keen to progress but maybe don’t know how to or need extra support to take their career to the next level. You may have started your own business and have a clear objective in mind, or you might want to progress to a leadership position in the future and want to strengthen your management skills. Perhaps you’re returning to work after parental leave and want to take your career in a new direction that works better for you and your family. We’re inviting everyone to apply if the idea of learning from a female business leader ignites their interest – and we can’t wait to read through the applications."
Rebecca Graves, Director.