Women in AV/IT (WAVIT), a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing women in the audio-visual industry, has announced the launch of its Wave of Influence Mentorship Program, designed to support women as they embark on AV/IT careers, or navigate challenges.
The mentorship scheme fits into WAVIT’s community-minded approach, which tries to ensure that no woman working in AV/IT is left alone. The programme, open to all career stages, matches mentors and mentees based on interests and experiences, offering tailored support and guidance. Committee members will provide resources and closely monitor partnerships to ensure a beneficial fit for mentors and mentees.
Gina Sansivero, president of WAVIT and VP of marketing and communications at AtlasIED, said: “Mentorship is a cornerstone in empowering women within the AV/IT industry. Through WAVIT’s Wave of Influence Mentorship Program, we are fostering essential one-on-one relationships that provide women with the guidance, support, and resources they need to navigate their careers confidently.”
She added: “This programme not only helps women overcome challenges, but also nurtures their growth, enhancing their skills and expanding their professional networks. Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive community where women can thrive and lead.”
Sansivero said anyone interested in sponsoring the mentorship programme should reach out to Carrie Garcia from the WAVIT sponsorship committee. WAVIT is also building a scholarship fund for those who need assistance with the membership requirements, she says.
Wave of Influence mentorship key programme details:
- Interested mentors and mentees will complete questionnaires, specifying desired frequency of contact, time zones, specific verticals, roles, and length of time in the industry.
- Mentees can indicate their preferred style and duration for the mentoring relationship.
- Questionnaires can be submitted online via the mentor/mentee links.
Jill Levine, outreach committee chair, WAVIT, commented: “The Wave of Influence Mentorship Program is to assist women who desire personal and professional guidance to help them move forward and grow within the industry in a variety of fields. I wish there was a programme like this when I started in the industry in 1999.”
Hope Roth, outreach committee co-chair, WAVIT, added: “Having been on both sides of the mentor/mentee relationship, I know firsthand how empowering and impactful a strong mentoring relationship can be. I credit several unofficial mentors with helping me grow my career to where it is today. I look forward to working with the next generation of amazing women in AV. The WAVIT Outreach is currently looking for mentor programme sponsors. Please reach out to myself and Jill Levine if you want to be part of this exciting new programme.”
AVIXA reports from 2022 reveal that while the percentage of women in the industry is increasing, they still represent only 13 percent of InfoComm attendees. In the US, only 15 percent of all engineers are women. Mentorship has proven to be a powerful tool, propelling women toward greater success and fulfilment, WAVIT believes.
