What's Happening?
The GLEAM Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering professionals in the foodservice industry, has partnered with Women in Restaurant Leadership (WiRL) to launch a new mentorship program
aimed at women in the restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality sectors. The WiRL x GLEAM Mentor Program is a six-month structured mentorship initiative that pairs emerging leaders with seasoned mentors to help them navigate their career paths. The program will kick off in February 2026 at the WiRL Together Summit in Charleston, South Carolina, and will run through August 2026. Participants will benefit from one-on-one mentoring sessions, access to leadership tools, and a national network of professionals.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is significant as it addresses the gender disparity in leadership roles within the restaurant and hospitality industry. By providing women with mentorship and leadership development opportunities, the program aims to accelerate their career growth and increase their representation in senior positions. The collaboration between WiRL and GLEAM highlights a commitment to fostering equity and empowerment for women, which could lead to more inclusive and diverse leadership in the industry. This could potentially influence industry standards and practices, encouraging other sectors to adopt similar programs.
What's Next?
The WiRL x GLEAM Mentor Program will officially launch at the WiRL Together Summit in February 2026, where participants will engage in leadership development sessions and networking opportunities. Registration for the program is open until December 7, 2025, and is available to professionals at all career levels within the restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality industries. As the program progresses, it is expected to create a ripple effect, inspiring more women to pursue leadership roles and potentially influencing organizational policies to support gender diversity.
Beyond the Headlines
The program not only aims to empower individual women but also seeks to challenge and change the cultural norms within the industry that have historically limited women's advancement. By focusing on strategic mentoring, the initiative could lead to long-term shifts in how leadership is perceived and developed, promoting a more equitable workplace environment. Additionally, the program's emphasis on measurable growth plans and leadership competencies could set a precedent for other industries to follow.
