By Maisie George and Amy Joan Sayner
On 20 May, the Society of Young Publishers (SYP) reopened applications for its annual six-month mentorship programme, which is designed to support those who are aspiring to break into the publishing industry or who are in the early stages of their career. The scheme offers personalised career guidance and includes at least four one-to-one virtual meetings with the mentor, as well as the opportunity to attend a virtual social event to network and connect with other mentors and mentees. The applications will remain open until June, with the programme running from August 2024 until January 2025.
The initiative was first launched in 2009 to provide personalised support for those who are looking to progress within the publishing sector, and particularly those from under-represented backgrounds. Originally devised by Jason Mitchell, Senior Acquisitions Editor at Elsevier, the scheme has gone from strength to strength. In 2016, age limits were scrapped, allowing anyone who believed they could benefit from the scheme to apply, and in 2020 the scheme expanded to include both members and non-members. In the same year, it also widened its scope geographically to cover all branches in the UK and Ireland.
The scheme is split into three strands: Into, Ahead, and Launch. “Into” is for those who haven’t yet secured their first role and are looking for more support in this endeavour, whilst “Ahead” is for those who have already begun their publishing career and want to take the next step. “Launch” is a less traditional option and is directed at those looking to freelance or start their own company. It is important to note that different branches of SYP will be running different strands; for more information about which strands your local branch will be offering, please click here.
This programme has enjoyed great success, with over 100 connections made between mentees and mentors in 2023 alone. A previous mentee commented, “I was able to prepare some application materials and consider career options and what it would be like in the industry. It was very helpful, and I think I learned a lot.” They also stated that their mentor was “kind, thoughtful, friendly, and very interested in my ideas raised during our meetings. I appreciated my mentor’s time and the insights they offered in response to my ideas.”
If you are interested in applying for this fantastic opportunity, click here to go the SYP’s website where you can find further information along with the application forms. Please note that applications will close on 16 June 2024 at 23:59.
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