Image courtesy WCA

Fifty-four early and mid-career professionals from across the wine sector in Australia have today been announced as the participants for the 2025 Wine Industry Mentor Program.

The full list of the mentees and mentors accepted into the 2025 program is available here.

An annual program now in its seventh year, the Wine Industry Mentor Program supports future generations of wine industry professionals by offering them mentoring from leaders of the sector from across the supply chain. This year’s program will run over six months from June to November 2025.

A whole-of-sector initiative, the program is supported by the University of Adelaide, Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology (ASVO), Wine Australia, Wine Industry Suppliers Association (WISA) and Wine Communicators of Australia (WCA). The partners said they were delighted with the strong interest in the program this year and noted the diversity and impressive quality of all applicants.

The successful candidates cover a broad range of skills from marketers and winemakers to viticulturists, researchers, wine students, and wine retailers. The program aims to provide the mentees with the opportunity to connect with like-minded peers, grow their confidence and skills, and be inspired by some of the most respected leaders in the wine industry.

“The Wine Industry Mentor Program continues to be one of the most important initiatives in developing mid and early career talent and strengthening capability across the Australian grape and wine sector,” said Lynda Schenk, national chair, WCA.

“This year marks an exciting evolution with the inclusion of three international mentors for the first time, highlighting the growing global relevance of the program. It reflects the calibre of both our mentees and mentors, and positions the Australian wine community as not only one of tradition but also of innovation and leadership on the world stage.”

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