IAIAsa is pleased to announce that we have secured funding from SACNASP to participate in the Candidate Mentorship Programme (CMP) for 2026/27. This 12-month programme, funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), is designed to support registered Candidate Natural Scientists with less than three years of work experience by pairing them with seasoned and aspiring mentors (Pr. Sci. Nat. or Cert. Sci. Nat.). The programme offers structured mentoring, soft skills development, training interventions, conference attendance, and work-readiness activities, with a maximum budget of R15,000 per candidate. We have secured six  mentee placements and are now inviting interested members to apply. 

Applications close on 22 October 2026. 

Applications Now Open for Mentors and Mentees

Are you looking to grow your career, share your professional knowledge, or connect with someone who can help you navigate your environmental career journey?

The SACNASP Candidate Mentor Programme (CMP) is an opportunity for members to connect, learn from one another and contribute to the growth and development of our profession.

Whether you are an experienced professional with knowledge to share or a member looking for guidance and support as you navigate your career, there is a place for you in the CMP.

🌱 Become a Mentor

Have you gained valuable experience throughout your career that you would like to share with the next generation of environmental professionals?

As a mentor, you will have the opportunity to:

• Share your professional knowledge, experience and lessons learned.
• Support the career and professional development of another IAIAsa member & SACNASP-registered candidate 
• Provide guidance on career pathways, professional growth and navigating the natural science sector.
• Help your mentee identify and work towards meaningful professional goals.
• Contribute to the development and strengthening of our profession.
• Build meaningful professional connections within the IAIAsa community.

Your experience could be the guidance someone else needs to take their next step.

🌿 Become a Mentee

Are you looking for guidance as you navigate your professional journey?

As a mentee, the CMP provides an opportunity to:

• Gain insight from an experienced professional.
• Discuss career development and professional goals.
• Explore potential career pathways and opportunities.
• Develop your professional skills and confidence.
• Receive constructive guidance and perspectives from someone outside your immediate workplace.
• Expand your professional network within the IAIAsa community.
• Learn from someone who has walked a similar path before you.

You don’t have to navigate your career journey alone.

Who Can Apply?

The programme is open to eligible IAIAsa members who meet the relevant programme requirements. Whether you are an established professional wanting to give back or a member looking for support and direction, we encourage you to consider becoming part of the programme.

In summary:

Seasoned and Aspiring Mentors: Experienced SACNASP scientists (Pr. Sci. Nat or Cert. Sci. Nat.) with a valid IAIAsa membership.

Aspiring Mentees: Candidate SACNASP scientists (Cand. Sci. Nat) with a valid IAIAsa membership. 

Note that only 6 mentees will be selected. 

What Can You Expect?

The CMP is designed to facilitate a structured and meaningful mentorship relationship. Mentors and mentees will be matched based on relevant information provided during the application process, with the aim of creating productive and mutually beneficial mentorship relationships.

Participants will receive guidance on the program process, expectations and participation requirements.

Why Mentorship Matters

Professional development is not only about qualifications and technical knowledge. It is also about people, experiences, conversations and connections. Sometimes, one conversation can provide a new perspective. One introduction can open a door. One person sharing what they have learned can help someone else avoid the mistakes they made along the way.

Ready to Get Involved?

We are now calling on IAIAsa members to participate as either a Mentor or Mentee.

Mentor Application Form: Click Here 

Mentee Application Form: Click Here

DEADLINE: 22 October 2026

Your experience matters. Your growth matters. Our profession matters.

Let’s build a stronger professional community, one connection at a time.