
Deadline: 8 December 2025
If you’re looking to launch or improve a participatory program, the Rising Stars Mentorship Program from People Powered, in collaboration with Coglobal and the Nets4Dem project, provides expert guidance tailored for government officials, staff, and civil society advocates.
The program connects mentees—policymakers, program managers, and advocates—with experienced mentors who offer practical advice on designing and implementing participatory initiatives. Mentorship pairs are matched based on program type, location, language, and specific challenges.
Who Can Apply
- Activists in civil society organizations and government officials seeking approval for participatory programs
- Staff responsible for implementing participatory programs
- Community partners involved in participatory planning
How It Works
- Apply for mentoring support.
- Prepare through an online orientation covering program goals, expectations, and resources.
- Meet your mentor: Up to three calls over six months to set goals and discuss challenges.
- Gain the confidence, skills, and knowledge to run more effective participatory programs.
Application Deadline
- Dec 8, 2025 → Mentorship starts early January 2026
Late applications are considered for the next cycle. Urgent inquiries can be directed to mentorship@peoplepowered.org.
The program has successfully supported initiatives worldwide, including in Georgia, Kenya, Brazil, Hungary, Poland, Scotland, and the United States. Mentors are drawn from a diverse global network of experts in participatory governance, civil society, and community engagement.
This program is funded in part by the European Union through the Horizon Europe framework.
For further details, please see the program’s website.