WasteMINZ Mentorship Programme
Mentorship programme
The WasteMINZ Mentorship Programme aims to connect experienced waste and resource recovery professionals with emerging talent to share knowledge, build capability, and support career development across the sector.
We are looking for Expressions of Interest for both mentors and mentees to take part in our first Mentorship Programme starting in September. The first intake will be a small trial of up to 6 mentees/mentors, so that we can evaluate the success of the programme.
This is a one-to-one mentoring programme, where potential mentees will be matched with mentors by the WasteMINZ team. Each pair will be asked to meet at least once a month (although if you want to meet more often you are welcome), either in person, online or via phone calls.
Mentors will support their mentees with goal setting and development planning, career guidance and sector insights, and leadership development. Mentees will also have the added benefit of exposure to broader sector perspectives.
Expressions of interest for both mentees and mentors will be open from 9 July – 6 August. The programme will then run between September 2026 to February 2027.
The programme will kick off with an orientation session, and WasteMINZ will provide resources and ongoing support throughout the next six month.
If you have any questions, please contact Nadja on nadja@wasteminz.org.nz

What will you get out of the programme?
For mentees:
- Career development: Gain guidance on career pathways, goals, and opportunities in the waste and resource recovery sector.
- Industry insights: Learn from real-world experience and practical knowledge that isn’t always found in training or study.
- Skill building: Develop technical, professional, and leadership skills.
- Networking opportunities: Build connections within the WasteMINZ community and wider industry.
- Confidence and support: Receive encouragement and a safe space to ask questions and explore ideas.
- Clear direction: Get help setting goals and making informed decisions about your future.
For mentors:
- Give back to the industry: Support the growth of future professionals and strengthen the sector.
- Develop leadership skills: Enhance coaching, communication, and mentoring capabilities.
- Fresh perspectives: Gain new ideas and insights from emerging talent.
- Professional satisfaction: Experience the reward of helping someone grow and succeed.
- Expand your network: Build connections with mentees and other mentors across WasteMINZ.
- Stay engaged: Keep up to date with new trends, challenges, and thinking in the industry.
.jpg?width=1200&height=1200&name=Mentorship%201200x1200%20(4).jpg)
Who can get involved?
The WasteMINZ mentoring programme is open only to WasteMINZ members. Mentors or mentees must be named contacts who already receive WasteMINZ benefits.
Mentors:
We are looking for experienced and supportive professionals who are passionate about helping others grow. Great mentors are willing to share their knowledge, insights, and industry experience, while providing encouragement, guidance, and a listening ear. They are approachable, committed to professional development, and keen to contribute to the future success of the waste, resource recovery, and sustainability sector.
Mentees:
We are looking for enthusiastic individuals who are committed to their personal and professional development. Great mentees are open to learning, willing to take initiative, and prepared to actively engage in the mentoring relationship. They are curious, receptive to feedback, and motivated to set goals, reflect on their experiences, and make the most of the guidance and support offered by their mentor.
