Mentoring Programme

For the past 25 years, RIPE Meetings have brought together thousands of people interested in Internet operations, policy and governance. As the RIPE community evolves, it is important that everyone feels welcome and comfortable participating, regardless of technical ability or career level.

Volunteering as a mentor is an easy way to pay it forward and ensure the RIPE community continues to thrive.  

Become a Mentor

Volunteering as a Mentor is a meaningful way to give back to the RIPE community. It is also an opportunity to meet other professionals and expand your network.

To volunteer:

Select “Yes, I want to volunteer time as a Mentor at RIPE XX” in the relevant section of the RIPE Meeting registration form. Please note that this option is only available to onsite attendees.

We’ll contact you and send you a link to a short form, which will help us match you with a suitable Mentee based on shared interests, language and time zone. You can also find the form link in your RIPE Meeting registration confirmation email.

Mentors will be introduced to their Mentee(s) via email a few weeks before the meeting.

If you cannot find the form or need help, contact us at meeting@ripe.net.

We expect from Mentors to:

• Arrange a virtual coffee chat with their Mentee(s) before the RIPE Meeting to answer questions and provide orientation.
• Review the RIPE Meeting agenda and attendee list with their Mentee(s) to identify relevant sessions and networking opportunities.
• Explain how to participate in the RIPE community and the importance of the RIPE Code of Conduct.
• Meet their Mentee(s) in person during the meeting.

Become a Mentee

If you would like to be paired with an experienced RIPE community member:

Select “Yes, I want to be paired with a Mentor at RIPE XX” during the RIPE Meeting registration process. Please note that this option is only available to onsite attendees.

We’ll contact you and send you a link to a short form, which will help us match you with a suitable Mentor based on shared interests, language and time zone. You can also find the form link in your RIPE Meeting registration confirmation email.

Mentors will be introduced to their Mentee(s) via email a few weeks before the meeting.

If you cannot find the form or need help, contact us at meeting@ripe.net.

We expect from Mentees to:

• Demonstrate a proactive, curious and respectful attitude.
• Contact their Mentor after receiving the introduction email to schedule a virtual meeting and use the initial email to review the short bios and suggested conversation topics provided
• Meet their Mentor in person during the meeting.

Mentoring Activities at the RIPE Meeting

• Mentor-Mentee Lunch, Day 1: On the first day of the meeting, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with fellow Mentees and Mentors and exchange experiences.
• Group Photo Session, Day 3: Strike a pose and celebrate your mentoring experience! Don’t miss the group photo session on Day 3.

After the Meeting

All Mentors and Mentees will be invited to a feedback session. Your input will help us improve the programme for the next RIPE Meeting, and we strongly encourage everyone to participate.

If you have questions, need further information or have missed the deadline but would still like to join the programme, please contact us at meeting@ripe.net.