
30 UNDER 30 PARTNER:
30 UNDER 30
Mentorship Program
Empowering the Next Generation of Cultural Leaders
The 30 UNDER 30 Mentorship Program is an initiative by Communicating the Arts that connects 30 emerging cultural professionals with 30 globally recognized mentors. This transformative program fosters leadership, innovation, and international collaboration, equipping young professionals with the tools to thrive in the arts sector.
The 2025 program is sponsored by G&A.
Applications for the 2025 edition are now open and close on May 4th.
Mentorship is key to growth for young professionals...a safe place to discuss what they are really going through • Gretchen Coss, Mentor 2023 •
Mentorship is key to growth for young professionals...a safe place to discuss what they are really going through • Gretchen Coss, Mentor 2023 •
About the Program
The 30 UNDER 30 Mentorship Program is dedicated to fostering inclusive growth and collaboration, equipping mentees with the mentorship, skills, and exposure needed to excel in a rapidly evolving cultural sector. Over the years, it has empowered emerging leaders while providing mentors with opportunities to share expertise, gain fresh insights, and refine their coaching skills.
The six-month program (May–November 2025) offers:
One-on-One Mentorship – Personalized monthly guidance from an experienced cultural leader.
Exclusive Masterclasses – Develop leadership, innovation, and essential soft skills, learning from experts.
Networking – Engage in exclusive online events with peers and mentors.
Industry Discussions – Gain insights from experts on pressing cultural topics.
Global Exposure – Expand your network and attend the CTA Conference in Amsterdam (June 17–19, 2025).
Community Access – Join the 30 UNDER 30 alumni network, connecting cultural leaders worldwide.
Is this program for you?
If you’re under 30 and passionate about advancing your career in the cultural sector, the 30 UNDER 30 program is for you.
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Mentees must be under 30 years old
They must hold a position below GM level.
They must have a minimum of 3 years of work experience.
They must have a clear goal to work on with a mentor
They should be willing to invest the necessary time to ensure the program's success.
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Personalized Guidance: Receive one-on-one support and advice from experienced mentors tailored to your career goals and aspirations.
Skill Enhancement: Gain valuable insights, knowledge, and expertise to enhance your skills and capabilities in your chosen field.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with mentors, fellow mentees, and industry professionals to expand your professional network and explore new opportunities.
Career Advancement: Access resources, guidance, and support to help you navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and advance your career.
Conference Access: A free ticket for the CTA conference in Amsterdam from June 17-19, 2025.
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Mentors must hold senior positions in their organization
They should be share their knowledge and network with mentees
They should be willing to invest the necessary time to ensure the program's success.
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Personal Fulfilment: Share your expertise, experience, and knowledge to contribute to personal and professional growth.
Leadership Development: Enhance leadership skills like coaching, communication, and problem-solving for career advancement.
Networking Opportunities: Expand your professional network by connecting with mentors, mentees, and industry professionals.
Skill Development: Reflect on your skills, identify areas for improvement, and develop new competencies through teaching and guiding others.
Conference Access: A 50% discount for registration (on the Regular Ticket price) at the CTA conference in Amsterdam from June 17-19 and an invitation to chair a session.
We can all learn from each other - this goes for the mentors as well! Talking with these young professionals gives us a lens into what mentees are going through in similar institutions • Gretchen Coss, Mentor 2023 •
We can all learn from each other - this goes for the mentors as well! Talking with these young professionals gives us a lens into what mentees are going through in similar institutions • Gretchen Coss, Mentor 2023 •
Program timeline
Subject to change
Kickoff & Pairing
Final selection of participants.
Mentor-mentee pairings announced.
Virtual introduction call to set expectations and goals.
Exclusive training sessions for mentors and mentees to ensure impactful engagement.
Conference at CTA Amsterdam
Mentees attend the Communicating the Arts (CTA) Conference at the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam (June 17-19).
Benefits: Free entry for mentees, discounted tickets for mentors.
A unique opportunity to engage with top cultural leaders, gain industry insights, and expand professional networks.
Masterclass #1: Leadership Unlocked
Discover the key principles of leadership in the arts and cultural sector.
Learn how to navigate challenges, build influence, and ascend the professional ladder with confidence.
Mentee Networking & Mid-Program Check-in
A dedicated space for mentees to connect, reflect, and strengthen their global network.
Facilitated discussions to share experiences, exchange ideas, and foster collaboration across borders.
Masterclass #2: Building a Powerful Digital Presence
Learn how to craft a compelling online identity that accelerates career growth.
Strategies for leveraging LinkedIn, personal branding, and digital storytelling to stand out in the industry.
Masterclass #3: How to Pitch Yourself
Master the art of self-presentation and negotiation.
Develop techniques to communicate your unique value proposition with confidence in professional settings.
Final Reflection & Program Conclusion
Closing session to evaluate the mentorship journey.
Interactive feedback discussions between mentors and mentees.
Insights on post-program growth and future networking opportunities
There are so many incredible young people in the culture field who are capable of having a huge impact on the cultural world in the upcoming years • Meghan Drascic-Gaudio, Mentee 2023 •
There are so many incredible young people in the culture field who are capable of having a huge impact on the cultural world in the upcoming years • Meghan Drascic-Gaudio, Mentee 2023 •
Application Process
A successful mentorship begins with the right match. Our application process is designed to align mentees with mentors based on experience, aspirations, and areas of expertise—fostering meaningful cross-generational and cross-cultural exchanges.
Application Process:
Submit Your Application – Complete the online form, detailing your background, career goals, and interests.
Mentor Matching – Selected applicants are paired with mentors based on compatibility, expertise, and professional aspirations.
Program Timeline – The mentorship runs from May to November 2025, offering structured guidance, masterclasses, and networking opportunities.
Applications for the 2025 edition close on May 4th.
Dare to try, be proactive, and connect with people, because they have a lot to share • Clémentine Marcelli, Mentee 2023 •
Dare to try, be proactive, and connect with people, because they have a lot to share • Clémentine Marcelli, Mentee 2023 •
Get Involved and join the community
Since its launch in 2020, 30 UNDER 30 has built a dynamic network of young cultural leaders and mentors from around the world. Hear from past participants and see how the program has shaped their careers.
“The 30 UNDER 30 program opened doors I never thought possible. It changed my career trajectory.” - Past Mentee
“Guiding my mentee was a rewarding experience, providing valuable insights into the next generation of leaders.” - Past Mentor
Support the next generation of cultural leaders by becoming a partner of the 30 UNDER 30 program. Your contribution can help talented young professionals access mentorship, global networks, and professional development opportunities.
Benefits of Partnership:
Sponsor mentees to participate in the program.
Gain visibility at international arts events and conferences.
Align your organisation with a globally respected initiative in the cultural sector.
Interested in participating?
For more information, contact:
Tirtha Giri
Managing Director | 30 Under 30 Mentorship Program
Tirtha Giri is an India-based international arts manager, educator, and cultural strategist. She is dedicated to creating dynamic ecosystems that celebrate creativity while fostering cross-sector and cross-cultural collaborations. A former 30 Under 30 mentee, Tirtha is now the Managing Director of the program and aims to empower emerging leaders while cultivating a global network to strengthen the future of the cultural sector.
Our past mentors
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Aimee Davies
Founder and Counsellor at Hey Mate
AUSTRALIA -
Frédéric Durand
CEO and Co-Founder of SMARTAPPS
FRANCE -
Charlotte Gateau
Head of Marketing and Communication at the Royal Dramatic Theatre Stockholm
SWEDEN -
Kylie Millwood
Director Corporate Affairs at AGB Creative
AUSTRALIA -
Brendan Ciecko
CEO & Founder of Cuseum
UNITED STATES -
Marie-Hélène Avril
Head of Marketing, Communication and Partnerships at Cultival
FRANCE -
Dóra Juhász
Director of Brand and Communications at MOME Budapest
HUNGARY -
Gretchen Coss
Senior Vice-President, Strategic Partnerships at G&A
UNITED STATES -
Dr Natalia Grincheva
Program Leader, BA, Arts Management at LASALLE College of Arts Singapore
SINGAPORE -
Elizabeth Gehde
Director of Marketing and Communication at Queensland Museum Network
AUSTRALIA -
Maria Bolanos Alfonso
Global Marketing Consultant, Freelance
SPAIN -
Em Blamey
Creative Producer at Australian National Maritime Museum & Questacon
AUSTRALIA -
Jérome De Baecque
APAC Director at Moment Factory
FRANCE -
Matteo Giovanardi
Project Manager, International & Audience Development at Dinamico Festival; Research Fellow at University of Turin
ITALY -
Michèle Meier
Director of Communications and Marketing at Musée des Beaux-Arts de Montréal
CANADA -
Nikolina Olsen-Rule
Communication Consultant at the Danish Parliament
DENMARK -
Michelle Tabet
Founder and Director at Left Bank Co.
AUSTRALIA -
Peter Aerts
Head of Marketing, Communication & Audiences at S.M.A.K.
BELGIUM -
Louisa Bartlett-Pestell
Director of Programming and Participation at artsdepot
UNITED KINGDOM -
Olivia Bradley
Director of Exhibitions at AGB Events
AUSTRALIA -
Philippe Rivière
Director of Digital at Art Explora
FRANCE -
Shoshana Polanco
Head of Culture at Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, UNAM
MEXICO -
Tristana Perroncel
Storyteller, Cultural Project Manager and Audiovisual Artist, Freelance
PERU, FRANCE -
Yasmine Vatere
Assistant Director Brand Management & Marketing, J. Paul Getty Trust
UNITED STATES -
Sophie Kammerer
Head of Louvre Conseil
FRANCE -
Sarabeth Janzen
Director of Institutional Philanthropy at California Academy of Sciences
UNITED SATES -
Susan Eldridge
Founder, Consultant Coach and Podcast Host at Notable Values and Lecturer in Music (Entrepreneurship) at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music
AUSTRALIA