The BFLN mentorship program (the “Program“) is organized by the BFLN Membership and Mentorship Committee (the “Committee“). The program will provide an avenue for Black female law students and practitioners in Canada to connect and share knowledge with each other. It is important to BFLN that lawyers and law students who identify as Black females are equipped with the tools they need to succeed. These guidelines provide an overview of the Program including its objectives and the process for participation.

Objectives of the Program

The Program is a free and voluntary opportunity for BFLN members at different stages in their career to connect, support and build relationships with each other. The main objectives of the Program are as follows:

1. Relationship building: To create an avenue for interested BFLN members to develop deeper relationships and build a network of like-minded Black female professionals in their respective fields or fields of interest.
2. Professional development: To provide an opportunity for BFLN members to share experiences that impact knowledge and motivate others in their professional journeys.
3. Career Advancement: To connect mentees with potential employers or professional referees.
4. Technical skills training: To provide an opportunity for participants to sharpen their professional skills.
5. Cultivation of leadership skills: To cultivate leadership qualities in BFLN members by establishing opportunities for mentoring.

Mentors and mentees are encouraged to structure their relationship in a mutually beneficial manner to achieve the above objectives. If there are any questions or concerns about the Program, they may be raised with the Committee.

Who can be a Mentor?

A mentor must be a member of BFLN with (a) at least six years of experience as a qualified lawyer in Ontario, and be in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario. 

Who can be a Mentee?

Eligibility criteria for mentees include:

1. Current law students  
2. Law graduates not yet called to the bar in Ontario
3. Legal professional 0-5 years post call in Ontario,
4. Small firm or sole legal practitioners (within five years of opening their practice) who are seeking support and guidance, or
5. Internationally trained lawyers currently undertaking the qualification process in Ontario.
   
   

Duration of the Program

The Program will run twice per year, and each round will be for a period of 6 months. Cycle 1 will run from January to June and cycle 2 will run from July to December. 

Participants are encouraged to share their feedback on their experience in the Program.