This Thursday, 23rd October, lollipop mentoring hosts an evening of creativity, connection, and community — designed to help Black women in the creative, media, and tech industries thrive. Here’s why you should be there, and how you can get involved.

Lifting As We Rise: Join lollipop live – 23rd October

You’re invited to lollipop live on 23rd October — an evening of creativity, connection, and purpose. It’s not just another industry event; it’s a space where meaningful conversations lead to real change.

For anyone new to us, lollipop mentoring is a non-profit initiative connecting Black women in the creative, media, and tech industries with senior mentors who can help them thrive. Founded by Maria McDowell, the programme exists to bridge opportunity gaps and build networks of genuine support and advocacy. Since its launch, lollipop has matched hundreds of mentees with industry leaders from agencies, brands, and creative businesses — with outstanding results.

As one recent mentee shared:

“Lollipop gave me the confidence and clarity I didn’t know I needed. I’ve gained new skills, new allies, and a belief that I belong in this industry.”

That sense of purpose and empowerment is what lollipop live is all about.

Why Attend

MAD//Fest has always championed ideas that challenge convention — and that’s exactly what lollipop stands for. Our event brings together people who want to use their creativity and experience to make a tangible difference.

Join us for an evening designed to inspire and connect. Expect:

  • Conversations with mentors and mentees from across the industry
  • A relaxed setting with drinks and light bites
  • Opportunities to sign up as a mentor or mentee
  • Real stories of growth, purpose, and community

It’s a chance to meet brilliant people, share experiences, and explore how mentoring can shape careers and culture for the better.

Why Mentoring Matters

Mentoring is one of the most effective ways to create lasting impact. We’re currently inviting new mentors to join our network — people who want to give back, challenge perspectives, and open doors for others.

As one of our mentors put it:

“I signed up thinking I’d be giving back — but I left with more perspective, more gratitude, and more inspiration than I expected.”

You don’t need to be a CEO or a long-time leader. You just need experience, empathy, and a willingness to help someone else succeed.

The Impact So Far

Our most recent cohort has been our strongest yet:

  • 92% of participants said their mentoring relationship boosted their confidence and career clarity
  • 85% of mentees have taken on new roles, projects, or opportunities since joining

These numbers tell a clear story — mentoring works. It builds confidence, sharpens leadership skills, and strengthens the creative community as a whole.

Get Involved

If you believe in creativity with purpose, we’d love to see you at lollipop live on 23rd October.

Here’s how you can take part:

At its heart, lollipop is about lifting as we rise — because Black women deserve to thrive.

FIND OUT MORE AND REGISTER HERE! www.lollipopmentoring.com