MENTORSHIP

DEI MENTORSHIP PROGRAM for apa members

The APA's Mentorship program provides peer support to BIPOC and other underrepresented populations entering (and navigating) audiobook narration. Mentors guide mentees in building professional relationships; finding coaches, studio/equipment research, proofing, editing resources; and connecting with voice talent communities (Facebook groups, etc.). Mentor/Mentee partners meet and work on mentee-established goals over the course of 3 months, with at least two meetings a month.

"This has been an enjoyable experience. I'm glad I can have a positive impact on and assist with the development of such a talented and hard working mentee!"—Mentor, pilot program

"I’m really grateful that I was chosen as a mentee. I’ve learned a lot and gained more confidence as a narrator. I’ve also learned to stop being so hard on myself when lengthy pickups come back :-). I look forward to eventually becoming a mentor."—Mentee, pilot program

Interested in being a mentor?

Interested in being a mentee?

Baseline Expectations:

  • Mentees:

    • It is the Mentee’s responsibility to initiate meetings & Action Steps (goals).

    • Mentees will review/work on Action Steps before each meeting.

  • Mentors:

    • It is the Mentor's responsibility to set a professional tone and a supportive environment. 

    • Mentors must always aim to keep the conversations equitable.

  • Mentors/Mentees:

    • Must complete the two surveys offering program feedback.

    • Keep all discussions private.

    • Strive to adhere to active listening.

Time Commitment:

Mentors: 8 hour minimum time commitment over the 3-month period.  

  • 6 hours of one-on-one meetings with their mentee

  • 1 hour Launch Meeting

  • 1 hour Mentee/Mentee Mid-point Check-in Meeting

  • 1 hour Closing Meeting

Mentees: 9 hour minimum time commitment over the 3-month period.  

  • 6 hours of one-on-one meetings with their mentor

  • 1 hour Launch Meeting

  • 1 hour Mentee/Mentee Mid-point Check-in Meeting

  • 1 hour Closing Meeting

2025 Spring Program Timeline:

Month 1 - March

  • Mentee/Mentor pairs are set

  • Introduction Meeting - Tuesday, August 6, 12-1pm ET

  • Minimum two meetings per month between Mentor/Mentees to discuss development.

Month 2 - April

  • Midpoint survey for check-in

  • Mentee Midpoint Check-in Meeting - Wednesday, September 11, 12-1pm ET

  • Mentor Midpoint Check-in Meeting - Wednesday, September 11, 1:30-2:30pm ET

  • Minimum two meetings per month between Mentor/Mentees to discuss development.

Month 3 - May

  • Guest Expert Meeting

  • Minimum additional two meetings per month between Mentor/Mentees to discuss development.

  • Close-out Meeting - Thursday, October 17, 12-1pm ET

To apply: APA Members can access the application by logging into this page. Applications for the Spring 2025 program will open in February 2025.

Please note: applications are updated each session, and your APA membership must be active for 2025. To learn more about membership, click here.