"This continued investment in skills development for the industry helps to secure a sustainable and innovative future for Scottish aquaculture," said Jill Couto-Phoenix, Head of Aquaculture at Lantra.
Photo: Lantra Scotland.
Lantra has announced the return of the Women in Scottish Aquaculture (WiSA) Mentoring Programme for 2025, with applications now open. The highly anticipated nine-month initiative, supported this year by Crown Estate Scotland, is designed to foster professional growth and leadership development for women in Scotland's aquaculture sector.
"Aquaculture is an important part of Scotland’s economy, with many women already playing a crucial role in the success of the industry," Lantra Scotland stated in a press release announcing the scheme. "Ensuring there are both continued equal opportunities and pathways to leadership remains essential, which is why WiSA is leading this mentoring programme. By fostering these mentoring relationships, the scheme will support participants in developing their skills, building their confidence, and navigating career progression within aquaculture."
The mentorship programme, which will be facilitated by Skillfluence, Ltd., offers mentees and mentors a unique opportunity to engage in one-to-one mentoring sessions, supported by a dedicated career coach. It aims to connect aspiring leaders with seasoned professionals from across the aquaculture industry, promoting skill development, confidence-building, and career progression.
"This continued investment in skills development for the industry helps to secure a sustainable and innovative future for Scottish aquaculture," said Jill Couto-Phoenix, Head of Aquaculture at Lantra.
The scheme, Lantra stated, is "open to professionals who are passionate, looking to make a difference within the industry, and transition into leadership roles as they grow and develop their careers". Crown Estate Scotland will be sponsoring the scheme for the first time, Lantra confirmed, meaning participation will be fully funded.
“As a previous partner in this scheme, I was very pleased to confirm Crown Estate Scotland’s sponsorship of the WiSA mentoring scheme this year," said Anneli Hill, Head of Aquaculture at Crown Estate Scotland. "It’s a positive initiative for the industry and provides some great opportunities for more senior professionals within the industry, the chance to offer support to more junior colleagues, as they develop their own careers."
Teresa Garzon, Chair of the WiSA advisory group said the group were "delighted" the programme would return again for 2025. “It is such an important keystone to ensure that the industry continues to grow, giving early career professionals the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills to lead the industry in the future," she added.
Participants will benefit from remote online sessions, ensuring accessibility regardless of geographical location, although in-person meetings can be arranged if both parties prefer. Applications are now open for both mentees and mentors until 24th February 2025.
Mentor Criteria:
Currently working in the aquaculture sector in Scotland
Residing in Scotland and studying or researching aquaculture-related topics
3+ years of experience in the sector
Commitment to nine or more mentoring meetings over nine to ten months
Mentee Criteria:
Working in the aquaculture sector in Scotland or studying an aquaculture-related field in Scotland
Desire to learn about career progression and networking
Commitment to nine or more mentoring meetings over nine to ten months
To apply, or for more information, visit Lantra’s website or WiSA’s programme page.