Professional development for women in international security
The WIIS Brussels Mentoring Programme supports women active in international relations, security and defence. Through structured one-to-one mentoring and group activities, participants gain guidance, confidence and clarity to grow in their professional paths.
Individual Mentorship
Each mentee is matched with an experienced professional from EU institutions, NATO, academia or the public and private sectors.
Structured 6-Month Programme
Mentoring pairs meet at least once per month, supported by group gatherings and community events.
Skills & Career Development
Participants receive feedback, refine career goals and strengthen both technical and soft skills.
Community & Networking
Access WIIS events, training workshops and networking sessions throughout the year.
What to Expect
The WIIS Brussels Mentoring Programme runs for six months and is built around one-on-one guidance between mentees and experienced mentors. Each pair meets regularly, ideally once per month, with sessions taking place either in person or online.
Alongside these individual meetings, participants take part in group sessions, workshops, and networking events, connecting with the wider WIIS community and gaining additional perspectives on careers in international security.
The programme starts with a structured selection process to ensure the best possible match. After a short questionnaire and interviews, selected candidates are paired with a mentor and begin their journey with clear expectations and goals.
Participation requires WIIS membership, which provides access to all events and activities. The mentorship itself is free of charge, with mentors volunteering their time and expertise.
I have been a mentee and a mentor. The long-term, development-driven, relation-oriented nature of these mentoring programmes are key to my career
The programme has changed me, my mentality, my conceptions and expectations of the working world. It has made me tougher and more resilient
The mentoring programme helped me confirm previous career choices and my future career path. I have learnt to appreciate what I have and where I am now
Past Editions & Community Growth
30 Mentors
30 Mentees
Our largest recent cohort brought together 60 professionals across EU institutions, NATO, academia and the private sector for six months of structured mentoring and community engagement.
27 Mentors
27 Mentees
A highly engaged cohort focused on professional growth, leadership development and long-term career resilience within the security and defence community.
I want to learn more about the mentoring programme
If you are interested in joining the WIIS Brussels Mentoring Programme as a mentee or mentor, please complete the form and briefly introduce yourself. Let us know your professional background, interests and motivation for participating.
Our team will review your message and get back to you with further information.