DEI MENTORSHIP PROGRAM 

What is the APA DEI Mentorship Program?

The mission of the APA's DEI Mentorship program is to expand the pool of professional narrators from diverse populations* by providing peer-to-peer support to Mentees as they navigate the audiobook industry. 

Mentees are matched with Mentors who have the skills, knowledge, and experience in the Mentee’s chosen area of focus. 

Examples of a focus area a Mentee might choose include: how to build a network, outreach strategies, performance techniques, book prep, business management, booth/technical support, and web presence. 

*APA’s definition of diversity: “We recognize all diverse experiences, including (but not limited to) LGBTQIA, Native, people of color, gender diversity, people with disabilities*, and ethnic, cultural, and religious minorities”.

Mentorship Guidelines & Logistics

Mentees are matched with Mentors who have the skills, knowledge, and experience in the Mentee’s chosen area of focus.

Program Length

3 months - March 18 - June 17, 2026

Time Commitment

  • 3 Mandatory APA Meetings

    • Mentorship Launch, Midpoint Meeting, Closing Meeting (1 hour each)

AND

  • Pairings Meetings

    • Minimum of 2x per month for 1 hour (6 hours total)

    • Maximum of 3x per month for 1 hour (9 hours total)

Eligibility 

  • Active member of the APA

  • Mentor:  Minimum of 10 books recorded (can be indie or publisher) OR a casting professional for a publisher or production company. ( Exceptions:  If you were a mentee in a previous cohort and/or have an area of expertise for example a professionally trained actor, engineer etc.)  Experience being a part of or working with diverse or underrepresented populations.

  • Mentee:  BIPOC or member of underrepresented population.

Become a Mentor
Become a Mentee

General Roles & Responsibilities

Both Mentors & Mentees

  • At their first meeting, Mentors and Mentees together determine the focus and scope of their 3 month pairing. 

  • Both Mentors and Mentees must complete two feedback surveys (one at midpoint, one at the end.)

  • All discussions should remain confidential.

  • Both Mentors and Mentees should practice active listening.

    • When they apply, Mentors state in what area(s) of knowledge and expertise they can provide guidance and support so we can pair you appropriately. They are not expected to know everything there is to know about the industry!

    • Be invested in wanting to help and share knowledge with an industry peer & be a supportive sounding board.

    • Mentors are expected to learn and recognize the mentee's strengths and working  style, and adjust their own style to support the mentee in their journey.

    • When they apply to the program, Mentees select what aspect of audiobook narration they want to focus on. 

    • It is the Mentee’s responsibility to set reasonable and achievable goals.

    • Mentees should review and work on their goals before each meeting.

    • Mentees should have questions and agenda items ready for each session.

Questions?  Please contact the us here.