Q-Mentoria is Back – An Important Initiative for Inclusion in Tech

Q-Mentoria is part of Consid’s efforts to contribute to increased diversity and inclusion in the tech sector. By matching mentees with mentors based on interests and future goals, a customized experience is created that lays the foundation for a successful mentorship. The aim is to give mentees the tools and support they need to take the next step in their careers – and for mentors to be inspired and develop in their role as leaders while changing the culture of the industry in a more inclusive direction.

One of this year’s mentors, Christian Wedel, Senior Strategist at Consid shares his thoughts:

– It’s great that so many people want to be involved! I have always loved to support others, help them find the right tools and see them grow. It’s great to be part of creating a safe and inspiring environment where the mentee feels seen and dares to speak up.

The program not only offers support to the mentees but also gives the mentors a chance to grow, which Christian agrees with:

– I learn so much from my mentees. Their energy and fresh thinking give me new perspectives and insights that I bring to my leadership. The importance of diversity becomes clear – different backgrounds and experiences create dynamism and inspiration.

The mentorship between Christian and his mentee, Ezgi, is characterized by flexibility and responsiveness. Their meetings can range from a specific issue to regular meetings over lunch or coffee with a clear agenda.

– What excites me the most is Q-Mentoria’s personalized matching method between mentor and mentee! The contact with an experienced mentor from Consid has given me a clearer perspective on industry dynamics, helped me refine my technical and soft skills, and supported me in shaping a strong career path, said Ezgi Senyurt, Consid mentee.

In addition to strengthening participants’ individual career journeys, the program plays a key role in raising the issue of diversity in the tech industry. Ezgi emphasizes how mentoring helps lower barriers and open doors for underrepresented groups.

– Q Mentoria is about making the tech industry more accessible and inclusive. As more women and non-binary people succeed in the industry, it creates space for even more to follow. It’s a positive spiral that the program contributes to, says Ezgi Senyurt and continues:

– When you have someone in your corner – who believes in you, empowers you and gives you perspective, it becomes easier to seize opportunities that previously felt out of reach.

Today, the industry is made up of just over 30 percent women. An underrepresentation that not only has a negative impact on the industry, but society at large, and creates risks for the infrastructure of the future. Q-Mentoria enables a springboard for women and non-binary people who are interested in IT and tech to position themselves as a confident professional in the Swedish technology industry by allowing mentors to inspire and share skills with their mentees. The experience Christian wants to pass on to his mentee is the feeling of daring:

– Try to be your own best friend by actually believing that you can and convey that when you communicate with people. Do not belittle yourself but believe in yourself and what you can contribute.

Q-Mentoria is one of the initiatives on the Q by Consid platform – a platform that has become Northern Europe’s leading community for gender equality. This year, the mentoring program received applications from 57 mentees and 32 mentors, where pairs were formed to provide the best conditions for both mentor and mentee.

– Having a mentor who really listens and challenges me to consider different perspectives has been incredibly valuable! The opportunity to openly discuss challenges, receive honest feedback and gain new insights has boosted my confidence throughout this transition. Christians experience has helped me align my strengths with the needs of the industry, refine my strategies, and navigate through uncertainty with a more solution-oriented mindset, says Ezgi Senyurt.

The importance of Q-Mentoria is to provide an invitation to the industry where mentors can share their expertise. Many mentorships have helped mentees bridge the gap between where they are and where they aspire to be.

– Being able to talk to an experienced person when you are new to the industry is very beneficial. Many people who have gone through the program are incredibly satisfied, happy and grateful, and get a lot of tips and advice – a great exchange! And maybe someone will find a role model, says Filippa Ahlcrona, national manager of Q by Consid.

Registration for the next mentoring period opens in May.