Women and girls in sailing: The Magenta Project opens applications for 2026/27 mentoring programme

The Magenta Project has opened applications for its 2026/27 mentoring programme, calling on women in sailing and the marine industry to apply for a place in what has become one of the sport's most established development pathways.

Now in its ninth year, the nine-month international programme pairs mentees with experienced industry professionals across seven key pathways: inshore, offshore, foiling, STEM, media, management, and race management and support. Since launching in 2018, The Magenta Project has supported more than 325 mentees and brought over 150 mentors into the fold.

Open to women at every stage of their sailing or marine career — from aspiring high-performance sailors to those building leadership careers within the industry — the programme is shore-based, with support delivered through regular contact with a matched Mentor and access to the Mighty Magenta Community Hub, the organisation's online community for participants.

Applicants have until 31 August to submit their forms, with a series of information sessions running throughout August for anyone with questions about the programme or mentoring in general. Selection and mentor matching will take place through September, with all pairings confirmed by 1 October when the new intake officially begins.

Those keen to give back can also apply to become a Mentor, or get in touch about sharing their experience through a webinar.

For mentee applications, click here. For mentor applications, click here.