Knowledge Mentoring Program

Knowledge Mentoring Program

Connection. Confidence. Community.

One-to-one mentoring connecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women with experienced mentors who share their knowledge, insights and lived experience.

Women connecting
1:1 Personal Mentoring
Free No Cost to Participate
Online Connect from Anywhere
Guided Ongoing Support
Who is this for?

Women ready to grow — and those ready to give back.

Whether you're navigating study, career, business or leadership — or looking to share your experience — there's a place for you here.

Career & Pathway Seekers

Students & Graduates

Aspiring Leaders

Business Owners & Entrepreneurs

Community & Governance Leaders

Experienced Professionals Giving Back

Not sure if it's right for you? Register your interest and we'll help you find out.
What makes this different?

We support the relationship, not just the introduction.

Most programs lose momentum once life gets busy. We keep things moving with structured support throughout.

Careful Matching

Matched on backgrounds, goals and areas of knowledge — not just availability.

Prompts & Monthly Challenges

Regular conversation starters and challenges keep the relationship active and meaningful.

FNE Team Support

The team is available throughout — so no one navigates the experience alone.

Online & Flexible

Connect from anywhere. The program fits around real life — not the other way around.

Training & Resources

Mentors receive practical training. No prior experience needed.

Completely Free

No cost — for mentors or mentees.

Why mentoring matters

Nobody succeeds alone.

01

Build confidence and self-belief

Having someone in your corner changes everything — especially when you're stepping into something new.

02

Gain real insights from lived experience

Not textbook advice — honest guidance from people who've been there.

03

Expand your networks

Mentoring creates connections across generations and industries that open unexpected doors.

04

Clarify your next step

A mentor helps you think clearly and move forward — whether you know where you're headed or not.

05

Give back and inspire others

Becoming a mentor is one of the most meaningful investments you can make in the future.

Women in mentoring conversation
Mentor sharing knowledge
For Mentors

Share your knowledge. Make a difference.

We're looking for leaders, professionals and practitioners who are ready to support the next generation. You don't need all the answers — the best mentors listen, encourage and share what they've learned.

Your experience could help someone take their next step with confidence.

No prior experience needed

Training and support are provided throughout.

Fits around your schedule

A small number of conversations across the program — designed for busy lives.

Guided by the FNE team

Prompts and support keep conversations meaningful throughout.

Got questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women seeking guidance across study, careers, leadership and business — and experienced professionals ready to become mentors.

A supportive relationship where an experienced person shares knowledge and encouragement. It's not coaching or counselling — it's having someone in your corner.

Not at all. Many people join simply wanting support or perspective. Your goals can evolve throughout the program.

  • Career pathways and goal setting
  • Leadership and confidence
  • Business and entrepreneurship
  • Study and professional development
  • Governance and community leadership
  • Financial wellbeing
  • Cultural identity and strength

Participants complete a profile covering their background, interests and goals. We match based on knowledge areas and mentoring focus — not just availability.

No. Training and support are provided. Great mentors listen, share their experiences and encourage — that's it.

Mentors commit to a small number of conversations across the program. It's designed to fit around a busy schedule.

No. The program is completely free for both mentors and mentees.

Yes. Most mentoring happens online, so location is no barrier.

Yes. Learning is lifelong. Many people choose to participate in both roles.

Get involved

Register Now

Whether you're seeking guidance or ready to give back — take the first step today.

Questions? Contact the team at programs@firstnationseconomics.com — we're happy to help.

Gurminder Saro

Interim Chair

Associate Professor Rick Macourt is a proud, queer Gumbaynggirr man, lawyer, and economic specialist. He leads First Nations Economics as Managing Director of Strategy and Foundation and serves as Associate Dean of First Nations Strategy and Services at the University of Sydney.

With over 15 years of experience spanning government, corporate, and not-for-profit sectors, Rick is deeply committed to advancing the economic development of First Peoples. As the former Director of First Nations Expenditure and Outcomes at NSW Treasury, he spearheaded the state’s inaugural Indigenous expenditure reporting processes and established the groundbreaking First Nations budget process in 2021/22. Previously, Rick held an executive role at the Westpac Group, overseeing First Nations affairs, and has a rich history in government, monitoring, evaluation, and negotiation, with senior positions at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, City of Sydney, and Standards Australia.

Rick is a published author with Oxford University Press, a member of the First Nations Advisory Board of Siemens Australia, and a Non-Executive Director on the board of Barnardos Australia.