After a successful launch of a new mentoring program developed earlier this year by the Northwest Indiana Influential Women Association (NWIIWA), applications are now open for the next group of mentees and mentors.
The NWIIWA Mentoring Program was created to foster personal and professional development for the next generation of women leaders. The program coincides with NWIIWA’s mission to offer support, education and connections in an effort to advance women across industries and within their communities.
The mentoring program brings together seasoned women leaders as mentors and pairs them with rising stars, who will receive guidance, perspective and encouragement to move their careers forward with purpose. The 6-month program is designed to help mentees focus on specific goals they hope to achieve by drawing on the expertise of mentors during monthly virtual meetings and special gatherings.
“What really elevates this mentoring program is that we have structured it so that the mentees remain in charge of their success of the program. This empowering design allows them to improve their confidence and remain focused on the specific goals they are setting for themselves,” said Aida Abuelizam, co-chair of the NWIIWA Mentoring Program. “Mentees are carefully matched with mentors who the NWIIWA committee feels would best support achieving those goals.”
Checklists are provided to mentees to help prepare discussion points prior to the virtual meetings with their mentors Mentees will also have an opportunity to complete the CliftonStrengths assessment, a tool used to help identify strengths and talents. Participants will receive a ticket to the Professional Development Program and a full-admission ticket to the Professional Women’s Conference to be held in November 2026. The dynamic annual event draws hundreds of professionals for a full day of education and connection through speakers, breakout sessions and networking opportunities.
The program’s first cohort was held June through November and drew interest from women across industries in differing stages of their careers. Those graduates will be honored at a ceremony held during this year’s Professionals Women’s Conference, scheduled for Nov. 12 in Michigan City.
To be eligible for the program, mentees must maintain an active NWIIWA membership and lead their growth by attending all scheduled program activities and professional development sessions offered through the program. As seasoned industry members, mentors are invited to offer constructive feedback, highlight strengths and suggest new perspectives.
The NWIIWA Mentoring Program committee members include Amy Henningfield, Margie Hofmann, Penny Schlyer, Marisa Valdez, Eileen Patterson, and Shelby Case. A kick-off celebration for the second cohort of the program with all mentors, mentees and committee members will be held in January.
The NWIIWA Mentoring Program is valued at $475. However, the cost for mentees is only $75, as the organization will provide a $400 grant for each participant. There is no charge to participate in the program as a mentor.
Mentees can apply for the program by completing this form. Mentors can register by completing this form. Deadline for applications for the second cohort of the program is Dec. 3, 2025.
