Encompass HK LGBTQ+ Mentoring Programme

Originally launched in 2020 by Community Business, this 9-month LGBTQ+ Mentoring Programme has consistently filled a crucial gap in our community, offering a structured and professionally-run platform to foster the career development of early-career LGBTQ+ professionals in Hong Kong.

Encompass HK is now proudly taking over the operations and curation of this program, leveraging our renowned strength in curating impactful experiential learning programs and our extensive network with a diverse range of corporates.

  • In our continued commitment to drive positive change within businesses and across society, we are thrilled to announce the 2026 cycle of the Encompass HK LGBTQ+ Mentoring Programme.
  • This program, now powered by Encompass HK’s expertise, offers an unparalleled opportunity for Mentors to share their invaluable insights, pay it forward, and further develop their leadership capabilities. Mentees, in turn, will embark on a truly transformative journey of personal and professional growth, enhanced by our unique approach to experiential learning and robust corporate connections.

Overview

This 2026 cycle carefully matches 25 mentors with 25 mentees, facilitating connections among participants from both Hong Kong and overseas, enriched by the program’s global perspective.

Sponsors

Our program is proudly supported by leading organizations from our corporate network, demonstrating their commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion:

What Encompass HK offers to our participants

Dynamic Professional Development Sessions

Our meticulously curated monthly sessions deliver a dynamic curriculum, designed to provide practical skills and insights through engaging, experiential learning formats. These sessions often feature thought leaders and experts drawn from our extensive corporate network.

1:1 Mentoring

Benefit from personalized guidance through regular one-on-one sessions with carefully paired mentors, many of whom are senior professionals within our robust corporate partnerships.

Collaborative Group Mentoring

Engage in monthly group discussions, fostering peer-to-peer learning and expanding perspectives within a supportive community.

Exclusive Networking Opportunities

Connect with like-minded professionals, senior leaders, and representatives from our corporate partners, opening doors to invaluable career opportunities and industry insights.

2025-2026 Programme Timeline

Time
Programme
August – October 2025 Information Sessions
October – November 2025 1:1 Interviews
February 25, 2026 Matching Event
Mid March 2026 Orientation
March – October 2026 1:1 and Group Mentoring,

Monthly Professional Development Sessions/events

November 2026 Graduation

Become a Mentor

As an Encompass HK LGTBQ+ Mentorship Programme mentor, you will leverage our program’s structured experiential learning and your own experience to make a profound impact.

Becoming a mentor with Encompass HK allows you to

As an Encompass HK LGTBQ+ Mentorship Programme mentor, you will leverage our program’s structured experiential learning and your own experience to make a profound impact.

Create meaningful change by providing essential guidance, motivation, and support.

Influence the next generation as a positive role model.

Build a network of lasting professional and personal bonds.

Develop and refine your personal leadership and coaching skills.

Ideal mentors for this program will have
  • At least 10 years of professional experience.
  • Either identify as LGBTQ+ or demonstrate a strong commitment as an LGBTQ+ Ally.
  • A genuine passion and dedication to fostering the growth of early-career professionals.
  • An eagerness to embrace new perspectives and learn from their mentees.
  • The capacity to attend at least 3 of the 8 monthly sessions, ensuring at least one in-person presence if located in Hong Kong.

Become a Mentee

Embark on a career-defining journey with Encompass HK LGTBQ+ Mentorship Programme.

Through our expertly curated program and the dedicated Mentor/Mentee relationship, mentees can expect to

  • Benefit from the invaluable wisdom and strategic guidance of seasoned professionals from our diverse network.
  • Undergo significant personal growth, building confidence, self-esteem, and taking ownership of long-term career objectives.
  • Create a valuable support system through lasting bonds with both peers and mentors.
  • Sharpen vital professional skills, grounded in practical insights and dynamic experiential learning opportunities.
Prospective mentees should meet the following criteria
  • Hold 3-10 years of professional experience.
  • Be able to clearly articulate their career aspirations and learning objectives.
  • Be highly motivated and committed to actively engaging in the mentoring process to achieve professional success.
  • Commit to joining at least 5 out of 8 monthly sessions, with at least 1 in-person session required for Hong Kong-based participants.

Become a Session Leader: Share Your Expertise

Our monthly Professional Development Sessions are a cornerstone of our experiential learning approach, designed to empower and inspire participants throughout the 9-month program.

If you possess valuable expertise and a keen interest in supporting the career advancement of talented LGBTQ+ professionals, we invite you to become a Session Leader.

This is a unique opportunity to raise your profile as a speaker, impart knowledge, and contribute to a program that benefits from our strong corporate and community network. Please get in touch with Encompass HK to discuss how you can contribute.

Unlocking Inclusivity: Discover the Encompass HK LGBTQ+ Mentoring Programme

Delve into the transformative Encompass HK LGBTQ+ Mentoring Programme through our detailed PDF. Explore how this initiative fosters diversity, inclusion, and growth. Download now for an in-depth look!

Matt Bower
Matt Bower
Partner, A&O Shearman
Mentor
I am thrilled to see Encompass continue the LGBTQ+ community mentoring programme initiated by Community Business. Having had the privilege of serving as a mentor for several years, I have found this programme immensely fulfilling for both mentees and mentors. The supportive and friendly environment fosters professional and personal growth, while also helping to build lasting professional networks.
Charis Ma
Charis Ma
Senior Practice Attorney, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Field LLP
Mentee
Participating in the 2020 LGBTQ+ Mentoring Programme was a transformative experience for me. As a lawyer, balancing high-pressure work with personal well-being can be challenging, but the guidance and support I received through this programme helped me develop strategies to manage stress effectively while staying focused on my goals. My mentor provided practical advice and a safe space to reflect on my career aspirations, which gave me the confidence to excel in my role. Beyond the structured sessions, the sense of community and connection with fellow mentees and mentors has been invaluable. This programme didn’t just help me professionally—it empowered me to thrive personally and maintain balance in a demanding environment.
Peter reading
Peter Reading
Mentor
It was an honour to be a mentor on the LGBTQ+ mentoring program as it provides an excellent experience to both guide and support young LGBTQ+ professionals in Hong Kong as they navigate their careers and personal development, as well enhancing your communication skills as a mentor to encourage and listen to mentees. I would recommend the program to any senior professionals that would like to make a valuable contribution to the development of young LGBTQ+ professionals, and foster a more inclusive society in Hong Kong.
Nicole Chan
Nicole Chan
Vice President, Black Rock
Mentee
I had the privilege of participating in the 2020 LGBTQ+ Mentoring Programme as a mentee. Beyond the knowledge and skills gained from the sessions, the connections I made were life-changing. Some of my closest friends today are fellow mentees and mentors from this programme. The support, guidance, and encouragement I received have helped me grow both personally and professionally. I feel empowered to pursue my goals in my career. The impact of this programme goes far beyond the structured content; it has created a sense of community that I cherish. I would highly recommend the programme to anyone looking to grow and connect within the community.

About Encompass HK

Established in December 2018, Encompass HK is a HK based social enterprise offering training and consultancy services to help organizations and individuals become more diversified and inclusive, with a focus on achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

To date, Encompass HK has delivered over 800 workshops and experiential learning programs, including signature initiatives TEDxEncompass HK, SDG Young Influencer, and Haw Par Wellness Day.

The organization collaborates with NGOs and community groups supporting differently-abled individuals, ethnic minorities, gender and sexual minorities, and more.