For many students, especially those from culturally diverse backgrounds, having access to a professional network is not a given. The VU Professional Companion Mentoring Programme helps bridge that gap by connecting students with mentors from the professional field.
The initiative, led by Senior Comenius Fellow Dr Yvette Taminiau, has now been extended for another two years.
Taminiau explains: “Thanks to an investment of approximately €150,000 from VU strategic funds, the programme can continue to grow. We will invest, among other things, in even better matching between students and mentors, enabling more students to gain access to networks and experiences that are not always readily available to them.”
Alderman Sofyan Mbarki: “Don’t be afraid to be different”
During the closing event, Amsterdam Alderman for Education Sofyan Mbarki spoke with students and mentors about opportunities, inclusion and networking. His message was clear: “Inclusion is not about becoming the same; it is about not having to leave part of your identity at the door. Therefore, you should not be afraid to be different. By being different, you are actually doing your employer a favour. Inclusive hiring is not optional,; it is a necessity.”
Read more about the programme and the experiences of students, mentors and Sofyan Mbarki in Ad Valvas.