SECTION 2 - ENGAGING MELBOURNE’S SKILLED MIGRANTS - Detailed Program Information

What will be the purpose of the mentor/ mentee meetings?

The purpose of the mentor and mentee getting together is to:

• (a) improve the mentee’s understanding of the social, cultural and business dynamics and expectations in their selected profession
  
• (b) assist the mentee in his/her overall settlement process as well as some limited social interaction as per the program
  
• (c) develop the mentor’s leadership skills through an improved understanding of the social, cultural and business issues and expectations facing newly arrived skilled migrants.
  
  

Is there a formal program of events?

Yes. The pilot program covers:

1. Pilot launch and introductory meeting for mentors and mentees

This launch is designed to:

– celebrate the commencement of ‘Opening Doors’

– introduce mentors and mentees to the program, it’s goals and the structure of the program, important dates etc.

– provide each party with an information kit

– provide time for networking and introductions.

This session will be held on Monday 3rd October, 6pm-8pm at the Immigration Museum, Flinders Street Melbourne.

2. Cross cultural training for mentees only

To be held on Monday October 10th, 6pm-9pm, at the Overseas Qualifications Unit, Level 15, 1 Spring Street (the corner of Flinders Street and Spring Street, in the Shell building).

3. Cross-cultural training session for mentors only

To be held on Thursday October 13th 6pm-9pm at the Overseas Qualifications Unit, Level 15, 1 Spring Street (the corner of Flinders Street and Spring Street, in the Shell building).

4. Joint session for all parties

Mentors and mentees to discuss the outcomes of cross cultural training and to meet your prospective mentor or mentee.

A discussion of the program expectations from each party’s point of view will be included in this session.

To be held on Wednesday October 19th, 6pm-9pm at the Overseas Qualifications Unit, Level 15, 1 Spring Street (the corner of Flinders Street and Spring Street, in the Shell building).

5. Series of one on one meetings between mentor and mentee at mentor’s workplace

The approach to these sessions would be developed in the joint meeting held in the early part of the program.

6. Attend the ‘Opening Doors’ Social function

This gathering is an opportunity for all program participants to get together in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The function will be held on Wednesday the 30th November, 5.30pm-7pm at a venue to be advised.

7. Final meeting of mentor and mentee

Discussion of outcomes of program and any work experience options.

8. Concluding Function (Date TBA, early February proposed)

Final get together of all program participants to celebrate the end of the program as well as to discuss the overall outcomes of program. All participants will be asked to fill out an evaluation form and provide the ‘Opening Doors’ team with some feedback on the program.