26 Feb 2026
FeaturesApplications Open: Metropolis Mentoring Program Pilot
SSI is pleased to partner with the Metropolis International Migration Network to deliver the inaugural Metropolis Mentoring Program Pilot — an initiative connecting emerging leaders in migration and settlement with experienced professionals across government, community organisations, and academia.
About the pilot
The Metropolis Mentoring Program brings together practitioners, researchers, and policymakers at different career stages to foster knowledge-sharing, capability building, and professional development in migration, multicultural affairs, and social policy.
Through structured one-on-one mentoring relationships, mentees will gain tailored guidance, practical insights, and support to advance their work and leadership in the field.
Launching in February 2026, this pilot will support six mentoring pairs (six mentors and six mentees) through December 2026. We’re gathering feedback and learning from this cohort to refine and expand the program for future iterations.
About Metropolis International
Metropolis International is a global, cross-sectoral professional association dedicated to advancing evidence-based policymaking and best practices in migration, diversity, and inclusion. By bringing together policymakers, researchers, and practitioners worldwide, we foster informed debate, promote leadership, and support the development of effective policies and implementation models.
About SSI
SSI is a community-based not-for-profit that works alongside communities facing the biggest barriers to equality, including refugees, migrant communities, people with disability, families, youth and children from all backgrounds in Australia. With decades of experience serving diverse and multicultural communities, SSI delivers essential services while working for local and global systems change.
SSI and Metropolis share a commitment to strengthen systems and policies that support displaced communities worldwide. As long-time partners and collaborators, this mentoring program builds on our shared vision of developing capable, connected leaders who can drive evidence-based change in migration policy and practice.
Who should apply
We welcome applications from professionals working across the migration and settlement sector, including:
- Academic and research institutions
- Public policy and government agencies
- Civil society and NGO sectors
- Private sector organisations
- International organisations
Mentees are typically in the earlier stages of their careers and seeking guidance to advance their work and leadership in the field.
Mentors bring professional experience and are committed to supporting the development of emerging leaders through knowledge-sharing and reflective guidance.
Program focus areas
Participants will identify their alignment with one or more of these thematic areas:
- Women in Leadership & Migration Policy
- Lived Experience of Displacement or Migration
- Indigenous and Decolonial Perspectives
- Diaspora and Community Leadership
How it works
Program timeline
Applications close: 27th of March
Program launch: February 2026
Program concludes: December 2026
What to expect
We recommend mentoring pairs meet for 3–6 sessions throughout the program year, conducted online or in person where possible. A recommended structure includes:
Introductory session: Building rapport, setting expectations, and identifying early goals
Core sessions: Exploring challenges, developing capabilities, and collaborative problem-solving
Final session: Reflecting on achievements, planning next steps, and closing the relationship
All participants will receive session templates, conversation frameworks, and practical resources to support meaningful mentoring conversations.
The matching process
SSI will facilitate a structured matching process based on:
- Mentees’ professional goals and interests
- Skills and knowledge areas mentees wish to develop
- Thematic and sectoral alignment between mentors and mentees
- Availability and capacity of both parties
What mentors provide:
As a mentor, you will:
- Provide sector insights and guidance drawn from your professional experience
- Encourage reflective thinking and leadership development
- Support mentees to set realistic goals and explore career pathways
- Offer feedback, encouragement, and connections where appropriate
- Maintain healthy boundaries and foster a respectful learning relationship
What mentees gain:
As a mentee, you will:
- Receive tailored guidance from an experienced professional in your field
- Build practical skills and confidence in your chosen sector
- Expand your professional network within the Metropolis community
- Gain insights into navigating challenges and opportunities in migration policy and practice
- Develop clarity on your career pathway and professional goals
Apply now
Ready to be part of this pilot program? Complete the Expression of Interest form by 27th of March to share your interest in participating as a mentor or mentee.
Expression of interest for future iterations
While this pilot will support six mentoring pairs, we encourage all interested individuals to apply. Those not matched in the pilot cohort will be considered for possible future iterations of the Metropolis Mentoring Program as we scale and expand this initiative.
Beyond this mentoring opportunity, Metropolis International Migration Network offers ongoing professional connections for those working in migration. Membership is open to professionals across migration management, services, policy, and research, as well as graduate students entering the field. Visit the website to learn more.
Questions?
For more information about the Metropolis Mentoring Program Pilot, please contact Carmen Ghaly at cghaly@ssi.org.au
