Become a Mentor in the 2026 NAAAP Chicago Mentoring Program

Program Duration: May 14th – August 15th 2026

(Program dates subject to change based on participant availability)

Every leader remembers someone who believed in them first.

Now it’s your turn to be that person.

The NAAAP Chicago Mentoring Program is returning for 2026, and we’re inviting experienced professionals like you to help shape the next generation of Asian American leaders.

As a mentor, you’ll share your insights, career journey, and lessons learned — empowering mentees to navigate their own paths with clarity and confidence.

From May 14th through August 15th, mentors and mentees will connect through one-on-one conversations, community events, and professional development sessions designed to inspire growth, leadership, and meaningful connections.

(Program Dates may change based on external factors i.e. participant availability, weather conditions, etc.)

🌟 Why Become a Mentor

We’d love to learn from your experience — and help you grow in the process:

• Make a lasting impact. Guide an emerging professional as they take the next steps in their career and professional development.
• Strengthen your leadership. Enhance your coaching, communication, and mentoring skills in a structured, supportive environment.
• Grow your network. Connect with other dedicated Asian American professionals and leaders across Chicago.

Application Process
 

We’re taking a more personalized approach this year to ensure we offer mentees a diverse range of expertise and experience.

To get started:

 1️⃣ Registration & Confirmation of Participation.

 Please register using your email address below. After registering, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the next steps leading up to the program kickoff in May.

Eligibility

• Minimum 3 years of professional experience
• Commitment to meeting with your mentee atleast once every month from May–August (3 times throughout the program)
• Interest in supporting the professional growth of Asian American emerging leader

Sponsor a Mentee

If you’re unable to participate as a mentor this year, we’d still love your support! You can choose to sponsor a mentee — your $45 donation helps us cover program costs and make the experience accessible to all participants.

How to Sponsor a Mentee:

👉 [NAAAP-Chicago Donation Page]

1. Select $45 to sponsor 1 mentee. If you would like to sponsor multiple, you can select "Custom Amount" ($90 for 2 mentees, etc.)
2. Click "Donate" at the bottom of the page
3. Fill out personal information 
4. Select dropdown menu at bottom of page "Select Specific Initiative" >> Mentoring Program Sponsor

Questions?
Reach out to the NAAAP Chicago Professional Development Committee at mentoring@naaapchicago.org.

 We look forward to having you as part of this year’s mentor community!