What's Happening?
The GLEAM Network, a nonprofit organization focused on empowering the foodservice industry, has partnered with Women in Restaurant Leadership (WiRL) to launch a new mentorship program. This initiative,
called the WiRL x GLEAM Mentor Program, is designed to support women in the restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality sectors by pairing them with experienced mentors. The program is set to begin in February 2026 with a kickoff event at the WiRL Together Summit in Charleston, South Carolina, and will run through August 2026. The mentorship experience is structured as a six-month, one-on-one engagement, where emerging leaders are matched with seasoned executives to help them navigate their career paths. The program aims to foster leadership skills, confidence, and professional networks among women in the industry.
Why It's Important?
This mentorship program is significant as it addresses the gender gap in leadership roles within the restaurant and hospitality industries. By providing women with access to experienced mentors, the program seeks to empower them to advance into senior leadership positions. This initiative could lead to increased diversity in leadership, which is known to enhance organizational performance and innovation. The program also highlights the importance of strategic mentoring, which focuses on developing key leadership competencies necessary for career advancement. As the industry continues to evolve, such programs are crucial in ensuring that women have the support and resources needed to succeed and lead effectively.
What's Next?
The WiRL x GLEAM Mentor Program will officially launch at the WiRL Together Summit in February 2026. Registration for the program is open from November 5 to December 7, 2025. Participants will engage in structured mentoring sessions and have access to a national network of professionals, leadership development content, and peer resources. The program is expected to create a ripple effect, encouraging more organizations within the industry to adopt similar initiatives. As the program progresses, it will be important to monitor its impact on participants' career trajectories and the overall diversity of leadership within the industry.
