Black man with glasses and headphones holds his phone while sitting at a desk with his laptop

Mentorship and professional development for college students and recent graduates with disabilities. 

 

Download the NextGen Leaders Program Flyer

Explore our Frequently Asked Questions

Stay up to Date

2025 NextGen Leaders Applications are now closed. To be notified when applications open, join our mailing list. 

NextGen Leaders

NextGen Leaders are college students and recent graduates with disabilities, including veterans, who represent sought-after talent by Disability:IN’s 550+ Corporate Partner companies.

NextGen Leaders have the opportunity to connect with leading brands across all industries, and are matched one-on-one with mentors from Disability:IN Corporate Partners for a six-month virtual mentoring relationship including opportunities to connect with recruiters from leading companies. 

“Being part of Disability:IN’s NextGen program was such a rewarding experience! The program gave me practical skills while introducing me to a community of passionate people who are all about supporting each other. From leadership training to building connections with mentors, it was empowering to grow both professionally and personally. I walked away feeling more confident in my career path and proud to be part of a group that truly values inclusion.”

Artis W. Headshot

Artis W. 2024 NextGen Leader and Service Veteran

Become a Mentor

Mentor a college student with a disability as they navigate the transition from college to the workforce. Business professionals in the STEM, finance, and business fields are highly encouraged to apply. 

Are you IN?

Submit a Mentor application by January 24, 2025. To learn more about getting your company involved, contact [email protected]. Mentors will be selected based on their match to their NextGen Leader.

  • Establish inclusive employer brands by participating in the NextGen Leader Initiatives.
  • Build relationships and learn best practices with NextGen Leaders through mentoring.
  • Source talent through the resume database of current NextGen Leaders and alumni.
  • Network and interview NextGen Leaders during activities like Matchmaking Sessions at the Disability:IN Annual Conference.

  • How long is the NextGen Leadership Program?
    • The NextGen Leadership Program is a 6-month virtual program and will run from March-September 2025.
  • What is the expected time commitment for mentors?
    • The estimated time commitment is about 3 hours per month, which includes mentorship and webinar participation.
  • Can I stay in contact with my mentee after the 6-month program?
    • Many of our NextGen Leaders have continued to stay in touch with their mentors after the program ends.
  • Do I need to have a disability to be a mentor?
    • No. Many of our mentors do have disabilities, but it is not necessary.
  • Is there a financial commitment to being a mentor?
    • No.

  • Why should our business participate in the NextGen Leadership Program?
    •  Participating in the NextGen Leaders Program is a great opportunity to support emerging leaders by linking students and recent graduates to the professional world.

  • Will I have more than one mentee?
    • Typically, no.
  • Can I connect my mentee to internship or job opportunities?
    • Yes! We encourage our mentors to share resources and employment opportunities with their mentees.

Resources