The first edition of the program was initiated in July 2022 by Women In International Security Poland, with the generous support of Northrop Grumman Corporation we are able to continue our work with Young Leaders in Security by launching the fourth edition of the Mentoring Program.
The WIIS POLAND – NGC Young Leaders Mentoring Program 2025-2026 marks the fourth edition of this initiative aimed at developing careers of female students, recent graduates and young professionals who are interested in pursuing careers in the fields of international security, defense, and peace studies. The program will connect 15 talented participants with 15 experienced mentors for a 10-month long project that includes individual mentoring sessions, skill trainings, study visits, and participation in the 2026 Warsaw Security Forum. To receive a certificate of participation, mentees will need to complete a small group project during the months of the program and have a presence in the trainings at a level of at least 75%.
The goal of the program is to provide participants with the necessary tools, knowledge, and network to navigate the international security and defense sectors, addressing the challenges faced by women in these industries. With the help of their older and more experienced colleagues, who have once walked a path similar to the participants’, we believe mentees will be able to couragely take steps towards their dream careers. The program will be conducted entirely in English and will feature four skills and competencies training sessions. Participants will also have the opportunity to attend key defense and security sector events, such as the MSPO/International Defence Industry Exhibition, to further deepen their networking and industry insights.
Young Leaders in Security Mentoring Program 2025-2026 is a full scholarship program and all costs associated with participating in the program will be covered. Please note, that the program does not cover travel costs of participants to live sessions and accommodation in Warsaw.
”Our mission is profoundly important: Advancing the role of women in the field of international peace and security will be one of the keys to advancing peace and security in our world in the 21st century.
Submit your application
Present your carrer goals
Meet your mentor
Attend training sessions
Become a female leader in Security
The application process is highly competitive and is addressed to applicants meeting the following requirements:
Profile:
- Female students and young female professionals in the fields listed below: STEM, defense, internal and international security, peace studies, military, and cybersecurity.
- Location: currently residing in Poland.
- Age: between 20 and 35 years old.
- Language: English proficiency, at least B2 level (certificate not required).
- Commitment: Full participation in all stages of the program is required.
Recruitment is open until 09-12-2025. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so don’t wait until the last second!
Application Process:
- Fill in the application form with personal and opinion-based questions.
- Attach your CV and a letter of Motivation, which will include your motivation to participate in the programme, what you hope to gain by participating and a description of your desired mentor.
Candidates will be selected based on the information provided in their online application form. No further recruitment steps will be taken, so please fill out the application form with care. We advise you to apply early, as there are limited spots available and the recruitment is conducted on a rolling basis. Documents (provided in English) needed for the application:
- Resume
- Letter of Motivation (Please explain what is your motivation to participate in a mentoring program, what would be your expectations from engaging with a mentor and what goals you’d like to achieve in the next 5 years)
Program timetable:
Inauguration
First Session
Second Session
Study Visits
Third Session
Fourth Session
Conferences
Summary meeting
Graduation
The project is organized thanks to the support of
Northrop Grumman
