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Creative Access and Penguin Random House have opened applications for the second year of their joint mentoring programme for those aspiring to work, or currently working, in publishing and the wider creative industries.
Its focus is on reaching career talent from communities currently underrepresented in publishing, for example in terms of ethnicity, socio-economic background or disability. It is open to people over the age of 18, including students at college or university or those who have some professional experience in publishing or the wider industries. Also welcomed are applications from those not currently in education, employment or training. The organisers hope to help 500 people aspiring to work in publishing by 2025.
Successful applicants will be mentored by individuals who have at least two years’ experience in the industry from across the different teams at Penguin Random House, including editorial, marketing, HR, design, digital, legal, technology and finance. The senior leadership team will also be participating again.
There are 90 places available on this year’s programme which is open for applications until 11th July.
Over the past year, Penguin Random House and Creative Access have partnered to offer 250 underrepresented people in publishing mentorships. A survey found that 90% of mentees felt they had been supported by their mentor to apply for roles in publishing and 84% said that their industry contacts and networks had expanded. Fifteen mentees have gone on to secure roles in publishing, five with Penguin Random House.
Josie Dobrin, c.e.o of Creative Access, said: “As we celebrate our 10-year anniversary this year, it is fitting that we are launching the second phase of our mentoring programme with Penguin Random House, which hosted our first ever publishing trainees back in 2012. For those who have no connections or any experience in publishing, it can seem a daunting industry to navigate. This programme is designed to reach talent from underrepresented backgrounds who are curious about the world and passionate about books and give them one-on-one support to help them access and build a career in this incredible industry.”
Val Garside, HR director at Penguin Random House, added: “We are delighted to be partnering with Creative Access again to fulfil our longer-term ambition of offering 500 mentorships by 2025. We recognise and value the mutual benefit that mentoring brings and know that our work together sparks change and creates opportunities for both mentees and mentors. Creative Access’ work to open up the industry aligns perfectly with our mission to make books for everyone, because a book can change anyone. We know that mission starts from within, and we’re excited to meet new talent through this programme."