It’s happening! The South African Institute of Government Auditors (SAIGA) is rolling out the Mentorship and Alumni Network Programme.

Get ready to level up. The goal? To develop well-rounded public sector professionals by offering a comprehensive support system for the mentees.

The programme includes a variety of initiatives designed to address key areas of professional and personal growth, including communication, leadership, financial literacy and personal brand.

To make the programme a success, SAIGA is seeking more experienced professionals to join the programme as mentors to ensure that all mentees are paired with qualified guides.

Key Initiatives in the Mentorship Programme:

• Leadership Evenings: SAIGA will partner with successful leaders in finance and auditing for webinars where topics such as resilience and the journeys of successful individuals will be discussed to inspire and share knowledge on overcoming challenges in the professional world.
• Personal Branding: The Image Firm will assist mentees in shaping their personal brand and professional image.
• Golf Days – What better way to network, build relationships, and exchange ideas than over a round of golf?

• Book Club: Mentors will participate in a book club to develop communication skills, verbal proficiency and presentation abilities.

As Warren Buffet famously said, “If you can’t communicate, it’s like winking at a girl in the dark — nothing happens.” 

This colourful analogy highlights the importance of clear, impactful communication. “If you invest your time in developing your communication skills, it can improve your value by 50%. You can be very smart and talented, but if you can’t communicate effectively, you won’t get as far as you want.”

SAIGA’s Education Development and Training officer, Setsoali Rantidi said: “As an Institute, we’re excited to continue developing future leaders in the public sector and encourages experienced professionals to join this impactful initiative as mentors. 

“With more mentors, SAIGA can ensure that every mentee receives the support and guidance they need to succeed in their careers.”

While the response to the programme has been positive, with 91 applicants received so far, there is an overwhelming demand from mentees, with 31% of applicants being for mentorship placements.

The Institute is calling for additional mentors to join its Mentorship and Alumni Network, with the deadline for applications fast approaching on January 31 2025.

How to Apply:

Mentors and mentees are encouraged to apply by emailing their applications to edtmanager@saiga.org.za, with a clear subject line indicating whether they are applying as a mentor or a mentee.