This page describes the 2026 edition: applications are closed and the program period has taken place. See what is coming up.
Empowering leaders. Growing organisations. Driving impact.
Benchmarking and Mentoring Program 2026
A light, flexible, demand-driven development program that supports National Organisations, Local Organisations and individual leaders through peer-based benchmarking and mentoring.
The 2026 edition is closed for applications. This page describes how it worked and what it asked of participants.
Organisational level: benchmarking partners
National or Local Organisations are matched as benchmarking partners to share best practice, learn from different approaches and adapt ideas to their own context. The relationship is peer-based and reciprocal.
Individual level: mentoring
Leaders involved in the benchmarking process can also take part in individual mentoring, focused on leadership growth, decision-making and strategic development. Mentors are ASE (JCI Senate Europe) mentors who have completed EMCC-accredited mentoring training.
2026 timeline
How it worked
- 26 January – 10 February 2026
Applications
Organisations applied as benchmarking partners and individuals as mentees.
- 18 February 2026
Introduction meeting
Held online. A recording is available.
- 20–28 February 2026
Matching meetings
Online sessions to meet potential benchmarking partners and mentors and find the best fit.
- 1 March – 30 April 2026
Mentoring period
Structured benchmarking sessions with your benchmarking partner and structured mentoring sessions with your mentor.
- European Conference
Meeting in person and evaluation
Participants met their mentor and benchmarking partner in person and evaluated the program.
- September – November 2026
Evaluation and results
Feedback was collected again in September 2026, and the results are presented at the World Congress in November 2026.
Who are our mentors?
Our ASE mentors are experienced JCI Senators who have completed a mentoring program accredited by the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC). They share their expertise, offer guidance and support the next generation of leaders in JCI and beyond.
More information on the ASE website.
Why take part?
Participation was fully flexible: at national level, local level, individual level or a combination. Organisations could contribute as learning partners, sharing partners or both. The program was designed to:
- strengthen leadership capacity
- improve recruitment and retention
- build meaningful European partnerships
- offer a ready-made, scalable development model
- avoid heavy structures and extra bureaucracy
Who could apply?
Up to 10 National Organisations, 20 Local Organisations and 50 individual members could be matched with individual mentors.
What was expected
From benchmarking partners
- Define a clear agenda for your meetings (for example recruitment, retention, leadership pipeline, partnerships, member journey, diversity or project management), schedule them with your partner and make sure both sides bring the right people.
- Share case studies, examples and project models. Sessions can be recorded.
From mentees
- Be proactive in defining your goals and scheduling meetings with your mentor.
- Take part actively and implement strategies with your mentor's guidance.
From mentors
- Give constructive feedback and tailored support.
- Encourage reflection and guide your mentee towards sustainable solutions.
FAQ
What languages are available for mentoring?
The program is primarily in English, but mentoring in other languages (French, German, Turkish and more) may be available depending on your mentor's skills.
Is the program free?
Yes, it is free for selected participants, as part of the JCI EDC's commitment to supporting JCI growth.
Questions
Contact Riikka Pohjanen, EDC Councilor for Talent Development & Upskilling, at rpohjanen (at) edc.jci.cc.