Culturally Aware Mentoring

What is Culturally Aware Mentoring (CAM)?

Culturally Aware Mentoring (CAM) is an evidence-based approach that emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing cultural identities, values, and experiences within mentoring relationships. Effective mentorship requires self-awareness, or understanding how one’s own culturally shaped beliefs, perceptions, and judgments influence interactions, along with a commitment to appreciating the cultural differences and similarities between mentors and mentees.

Practicing cultural awareness in mentoring helps foster inclusive, respectful, and mutually enriching relationships. This approach supports both mentees and mentors from diverse backgrounds, including differences in race, gender, ethnicity, religion, socioeconomic status, nationality, and sexual orientation, by creating space for open dialogue and promoting understanding.

Research shows that culturally responsive mentoring skills can be developed and strengthened through training and reflection, and are essential for supporting the success and persistence of future scholars.