Not-for-profit WOHO doesn’t just talk the talk. The organisation was founded on the premise of helping to guide women through the ups and downs of the hospitality industry.

Proving its worth, WOHO will shortly be launching a mentorship program. Industry heavyweights include culinary ambassador Christine Manfield, Jemma Whiteman (Good Luck Pinbone), Danielle Alvarez (Fred’s), O Tama Carey (Sri Lankan Filling Station) and wine journalist Mike Bennie.

The program itself will last for three months, during which time the mentees are given a minimum of 18 hours of one-on-one contact with their mentor. The program will be open to women in all facets of hospitality, with the first round to be chef and wine-focused and moving to the broader industry in time.

WOHO board member Jane Strode will manage the program, pairing mentees to the most suitable established members of the industry. “We are focusing on creating shared experiences that make the passing on of knowledge a treat for all involved. By bringing like-minded hospitality workers at different stages of their careers together we are hoping to make what can be a tough industry that little bit easier,” she says.

For the launch, members are invited to learn about the program and listen to Christine and Mike (as well as a few fellow mentors) speak about their experiences in the industry. It will be held on September 25 from 6.30-9pm, with tickets available online.