About the Mentorship Program

The Council EDGE Mentorship Program, established in 2009, has significantly impacted nearly 100 emerging young leaders. This prestigious program selects Council EDGE Members of the World Affairs Council to partner with the Council’s leadership, including Board of Directors and Advisory Council Members. Over a nine-month period, participants build strong relationships with these community leaders and receive valuable guidance on professional, personal, and international interests in intimate, one-on-one settings.

Due to its success, space is limited, and applicants undergo interview and evaluation process. Typically, only 4-5 mentees are admitted per year.

Once accepted, mentees can choose to be paired with a mentor in a similar or different profession. Council staff work diligently to ensure mentees are matched with compatible mentors from the Council’s leadership. This program provides participants access to various events and volunteer opportunities, providing an excellent opportunity for social and professional networking with other young professionals and Jacksonville’s top leaders from both the public and private sectors.

Application Timeline:

  • Application Opens: June 22, 2026
  • Application Closes: August 7, 2026, at 11:59 PM
  • Interviews (invite only): Week of August 17, 2026
  • Mentees Notified: Week of August 24, 2026

Program Requirements

During the 2026-2027 season (September to May), mentees are required to participate in seven total program meetings. This includes three group meetings (dates preset) and four one-on-one meetings with their mentors, scheduled at their convenience. To document the one-on-one meetings are taking place, mentees will be required to check-in and email with Council staff monthly to document their progress. The preset group meeting dates are listed below.

Group Dates:

  • Orientation: September 2, 2026, at 8:00 AM | The River Club
  • Midway Meet-Up: January 21, 2027, at 5:30 PM | TBD
  • Conclusion: May 6, 2027, at 8:00 AM | The River Club

Throughout the year, participants will have access to various events including our premier Global Issue Evening program featuring receptions and lectures with renowned speakers, and volunteer opportunities, allowing them to connect with prominent organizations and influential figures in Jacksonville. Additionally, mentorship program participants can take on leadership roles in our young-professional programming and are encouraged to engage with the Council EDGE Membership group at large.

Eligibility Requirements and Expectations

Applicants must be:

  • A Council EDGE member with dues paid in full ($75 for Individual;$100 for Couple)
  • A resident of Northeast Florida
  • Between the ages of 21 and 40

Application Items:

  • Completed application
  • Resume or CV

If selected, mentees are expected to:

  • Demonstrate a strong desire to participate in the program
  • Commit to completing the program
  • Display an interest in the world at-large and bringing the world closer to our Northeast Florida community
  • Have a strong understanding of future career goals
  • Send a brief email update monthly to Council staff with the following information:
    • Did you meet with your mentor?
    • Why or why not?
    • If so, please describe the meeting (length, location, topic, etc.).
    • Please note any benefits or drawbacks
  •  Participate in all eight program meetings.

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