Are you a STEM professional ready to make a global impact? The TechWomen 2025 Mentor Applications are now open! This is your opportunity to empower women leaders from Africa, Central and South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe through one of three impactful mentorship roles: Professional Mentor, Innovation Mentor, or Cultural Mentor.
About TechWomen
TechWomen, an initiative of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, brings emerging women leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to the United States for a professional mentorship and exchange program.
The 2025 program runs from September 21 to October 25, primarily in San Francisco and Chicago. As a mentor, you will join a vibrant, cross-cultural network of changemakers committed to global women’s empowerment.
Available Mentorship Roles
Professional Mentor
Help guide an Emerging Leader (EL) through her professional goals during a 15-day mentorship period.
Requirements:
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Women in STEM (men may co-mentor with women colleagues)
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Based in San Francisco Bay Area, Chicago, or other U.S. locations
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1–2 hours of availability per day during the mentorship window
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5-week hybrid program participation
Selection Criteria Include:
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Relevant industry alignment
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Ability to provide professional support and networking
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Prior mentoring experience preferred
Innovation Mentor
Support country teams in developing project proposals that address socio-economic challenges through the Innovation Challenge (October 3, 4, and 6).
Requirements:
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Must attend all three full-day Innovation Challenge sessions
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Must live in San Francisco or Chicago, or be willing to travel
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Skilled in ideation, teamwork, and coaching
Ideal for:
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Mentors passionate about project development, design thinking, and social impact
Cultural Mentor
Help Emerging Leaders adjust to life in the U.S. by sharing local experiences and fostering cross-cultural understanding.
Responsibilities:
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Organize 2–3 local cultural or social activities
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Serve as a guide and point of support during the program
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Coordinate logistics and act as a cultural ambassador
Requirements:
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Women based in the San Francisco Bay Area or Chicago
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Committed to empowering women and building inclusive communities
Key Program Dates
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Virtual Orientation 1: September 3, 2025
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Virtual Orientation 2: September 10 or 11, 2025
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Mentor Mixer: September 16
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Welcome Reception: September 23 (optional)
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Innovation Challenge (for Innovation Mentors): October 3, 4 & 6
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Community Celebration Picnic: October 18
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DC Trip (optional): October 21–25
Why Mentor with TechWomen?
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Build meaningful, cross-cultural relationships
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Join a respected global network of professionals
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Help emerging leaders create impactful change
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Strengthen your leadership and coaching skills
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Inspire and be inspired
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted by Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at 11:59 PM PST.
For any questions, contact the TechWomen team at techwomen@iie.org.
Apply now through the official TechWomen website
For more opportunities, visit opportunitiesforyouth.org.