In a fast-changing world with shifting workforce expectations and increasing competition for talent, staying ahead requires new perspectives. Traditional leadership perspectives are no longer enough. Brilliant Mentors of the Future is a reverse mentorship program where professionals from companies in Linköping are paired with students from Linköping University. Since the start in 2021, about 60 pairs have completed the program. Professionals can now apply for the 2026/2027 program period.
→ The number of spots in Brilliant Mentors of the Future is limited, so if you’re a leader, expert, or decision-maker looking for fresh perspectives, now is the time to apply!
In this setup, the students take on the role of mentors, offering insights on leadership, innovation, and the future of work. Through structured discussions, professionals get the chance to see challenges from a new angle, while students gain valuable connections and real-world experience.
Why should you, as a professional, join?
By joining this program, you will:
- Future-proof your leadership by understanding how the next generation defines authority, motivation and purpose
- Strengthen your talent strategy – learn firsthand what makes an employer attractive to future professionals and sharpen your employer branding.
- Stay updated on digitalization, sustainability, and new trends. Students bring insights from academic research and education, helping you stay relevant.
- Challenge your thinking and leadership style – a fresh perspective from outside your usual network can help you see new solutions and opportunities.
“The reversed mentorship concept really challenges your thinking and brings new perspectives,” says Johan Gunnarsson, CTO at Combitech, who previously participated in the program.
How does it work?
- Each professional is paired with a student mentor through a careful selection process. The selection process matches mentors and mentees based on their preferred topics and areas of interest.
- During autumn 2026 and spring 2027, mentor pairs will meet five times in one-on-one meetings, plus at a joint kickoff and a closing event.
- The pair explores topics that are relevant, interesting, and valuable for both parties.
Who can apply?
We recommend anyone who is a professional and has worked for some years in the industry, whether you work as a CEO, director, team lead, project manager, or any other leadership role. It doesn’t have to be a role where you have staff responsibility.
We don’t recommend newly graduated professionals to be mentees. We believe the program will be most rewarding for those with more distance in professional experience.
For students, this is a unique opportunity to expand their networks and gain hands-on experience. We know it may be hard to land internships and future work opportunities, but this is a great alternative to get that first foot in the door!
Want to know more before applying? Read more about the program.
The application for students will open in September.
Questions? Contact:
Emma Lindh, Project Manager, Brilliant Mentors of the Future
emma.lindh@linkopingsciencepark.se
