Need one-on-one support running a participatory program? Apply for mentorship!

We know that running citizenship engagement and participatory programs come with various challenges. But there’s no need to face it alone. Apply for expert mentoring support!  

The Rising Stars Program provides democracy practitioners with dedicated expert guidance to launch and improve participatory programs. This online mentorship program connects advocates, policymakers, and program managers seeking advice on their projects to on-the-ground experts who can assist them. 

We bring together the expertise of mentors from across the world, including EuropeAfrica, Asia, North America, and Latin America. Thanks to EU Horizon funding through the Nets4Dem program, Coglobal has partnered with People Powered to expand the Rising Stars mentorship opportunities across Europe and beyond.

Mentees will receive up to five 1-hour calls over six months, focusing on developing participatory programs in civil society and government. 

We will have four application cycles in 2025 that are filled competitively. You can now apply for the first cycle until February 26. If you miss this deadline, you will be considered by the following application deadline.

Who is this support for?

For all government reforms, advocates and practitioners who need targeted support, exchange of ideas or specific resources to your current challenge. More especially:

  • Activists in civil society organizations and governments trying to win approval for participatory programs.

  • Government officials and community partners trying to improve or address planning challenges on participatory programs.

  • Staff in government and civil society organizations responsible for figuring out solutions for implementing or sustaining participatory programs.

How does the mentorship support work?

  1. Apply for expert mentoring support. 

  2. Prepare for the mentorship sessions. Participate in an online orientation session about the program’s goals and expectations, mentoring process and resources offered. We review your application and assign you a mentor or mentoring group. Matching criteria include the type of participatory program, language, location, and challenges you need support with.

  3. Meet your mentor or mentoring group. You and your mentor schedule a call to discuss your challenges and decide on the goals you want to achieve through your mentorship. You have up to five calls with your mentor or mentoring group over 6 months.

  4. Get the confidence, knowledge and skills to run a more successful participatory program!

Who are our mentors?

We’ve carefully selected 30 mentors from 22 countries, and they’re ready to help. Read more about them.

Apply now to secure your spot!