Final call: Applications for Youngbloods WA’s Paddle mentorship program closing soon
Applications are closing soon for Paddle, the inaugural mentorship program from Youngbloods WA, designed to support advertising and communications professionals navigating the often-challenging “messy middle” of their careers.
With applications set to close at 11:59pm on Sunday, 9 August, emerging leaders across the industry are being encouraged to take advantage of the unique opportunity to connect with some of Western Australia’s most respected agency, media, creative, and strategy leaders.
Paddle was created in response to a common industry reality known as the “duck metaphor”: appearing calm and composed on the surface while paddling furiously beneath. While many mid-career professionals seem to have everything under control, they are often quietly grappling with confidence, career progression, leadership challenges, and burnout.
Paddle aims to change that by providing a structured, supportive environment where participants can access guidance, honest conversations, and valuable career development through one-on-one mentoring relationships.
Unlike traditional mentoring programs, Paddle takes a holistic approach to mentor matching, pairing participants based on personal values, aspirations, and career goals, rather than simply aligning job titles or disciplines.
The inaugural cohort features some of WA’s most accomplished leaders from across advertising, media, strategy, and communications, including:
Barry Walker, VML
Chris Eyres, oOh! Media
Dean Hunt, Chapter
Eloise Cribb, The Brand Agency
Emma Fry, SCA Perth
Georgie Frampton, KWP+Partners
Lisa Thom, Trilogy Advertising & Marketing
Matt Nankivell, Moonsail & Sundeck Productions
Matt Oakley, 303
Michelle Testa, dentsu WA
Paige English, Initiative
Simon Stewart, Rare
Click here for more info on the mentor line-up.
Collectively, the mentor cohort brings experience spanning local, national, and international markets, having worked with some of the world’s most recognised brands and organisations while actively contributing to the growth of Western Australia’s communications industry.
Program structure
Successful applicants will participate in a structured three-month program designed to foster meaningful mentor relationships and practical professional development.
The program includes:
• Kick-Off Event (August): Meet the cohort and mentors.
• Six One-on-One Mentoring Sessions: Catch-ups conducted in person and/or virtually over three months.
• Celebration Event (November): A chance to reflect on learnings and celebrate the cohort’s achievements.
Key dates
• Applications Close: 11:59pm, Sunday 9 August 2026
• Successful Applicants Notified: Sunday 16 August 2026
• Program Commences: Wednesday 19 August 2026
• Program Concludes: Late November 2026
Youngbloods WA encourages advertising, marketing, media, strategy, client service, creative, and communications professionals who are looking to grow their confidence, leadership capabilities, and career direction to submit their application before the deadline.
The application process takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. Form can be found here.
About Paddle
Paddle is Youngbloods WA’s flagship mentorship program, created to connect advertising and communications professionals in the “messy middle” of their careers with experienced industry leaders. Through meaningful mentorship, practical guidance, and a supportive professional network, Paddle aims to help participants navigate career growth with greater confidence and clarity.