A renowned lawyer and filmmaker, a former News Corporation state director and the entrepreneur behind one of the nation's most recognisable boutique breweries are among 12 industry leaders to partner with Bond University's innovative mentoring program, designed to enhance graduate employability.
The Vice Chancellor's Mentor Program pairs students with accomplished mentors within their field of study to provide one-on-one guidance and career advice throughout the duration of their degree.
The initiative is offered as part of the prestigious Vice Chancellor's Scholarship, awarded annually to 12 of the country's highest achieving school-leavers.
A diverse range of business executives have signed on to mentor this year's crop of students including Nyst Lawyers managing director and filmmaker Chris Nyst, former News Corporation Queensland director Sean Ryan and Burleigh Brewing Company chief executive Peta Fielding.
Bond University Vice Chancellor and President, Professor Tim Brailsford, said the program had attracted some of Queensland's top business executives since its inception in 2013.
"The Vice Chancellor's Mentor Program is part of our commitment to providing students with experiences and opportunities designed to accelerate their career ambitions and make them an asset to the workforce from day one," said Professor Brailsford.
"We match potential leaders of tomorrow with the leaders of today, giving our scholars a unique insight into their chosen field and access to invaluable career contacts.
"Students are offered a glimpse into today's fast-paced business environment and are given the chance to forge their own corporate and industry networks right from the start of their studies.
"Our mentors take their commitment very seriously and in previous years we have seen them welcome their mentees into not only their corporate sphere, but their family as well.
"For these executives to take the time out of their busy schedules to offer this experience to our students is truly admirable and speaks volumes about their character and generosity."
Marion Charlton, chief operating officer of Gold Coast Airport Limited, has been paired with first year law and psychological science student, Lacey Rowett.
"I am passionate about the advancement and promotion of young women in business, which is why I wanted to be involved with the mentoring program at Bond University," said Ms Charlton.
"I have a close relationship with Bond through my past involvement as a member of its Tourism Advisory Board and am impressed by the care and opportunities it affords its students.
"I am looking forward to learning more about myself and my new friend as we embark on this journey together."
Also taking part in this year's program are Clayton Utz's company director Dr Sally Pitkin and firm partner Jamie Doran; iEDM executive chairman John Howe; DBI Design chairman Barry Lee; McCullough Robertson chairman of partners Dominic McGann; Minter Ellison special counsel Robert Reed; Blue Sky Alternative Investments managing director Mark Sowerby; and Cronin Litigation Lawyers partner Derek Cronin.