The first group of mentors and mentees in the Licensing International Mentoring Programme have been paired.
Launched by the trade body and sponsor Octane5 in January, the year-long effort marks the industry’s first ever global mentoring programme and is aimed at bringing the expertise of global licensing veterans to young professionals.
Participants in this year’s programme come from companies spanning multiple categories and territories. These include Acamar, Beanstalk Licensing, Bulldog Licensing, Discovery, Holy Joe, Jazwares, NASCAR, Paramount, Penguin Random House, Redbubble, Rocket Licensing and SEGA.
The programme will initially focus on regions including the UK, US, France, Germany and Japan.
In addition to sponsoring the mentoring programme, Octane5 is expanding its partnership with Licensing international to sponsor the Licensing International Young Professionals Network (YPN). This is designed to help brand licensing professionals under the age of 35 to expand their skills, network, and horizons with free educational and social events. The 2022 YPN calendar kicked off in March in London, with more events coming soon to New York, Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
“We are so excited to partner with Octane5 and appreciate their support of both the mentoring and YPN programmes,” said Maura Regan, president of Licensing International. “Mentoring is a powerful tool that has the potential to transform the licensing industry, and both of these programmes provide opportunities for growth, development and the building of meaningful connections.”
Mike Dunn, co-founder and co-president of Octane5, added: “Over 20 years ago, my brother Matt and I learned about licensing the way so many others do, by working and depending on industry veterans for advice.
“We love licensing – it’s an energetic, dynamic industry with so many great people who are willing to help the next generation. We are especially proud to play a part in helping others learn and grow.”
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