OurWhisky Foundation relaunches the Atonia Programme
Originally launched in 2022, the global programme has so far guided 200 women and non-binary individuals toward their goals
Non-profit organisation, the OurWhisky Foundation, has relaunched its globally-renowned mentorship programme for women in whisky amid a major restructure, and is now accepting applications for its first regional cohorts.
Now known as the Atonia Programme, the widely-acclaimed personal and professional development course has been renamed to better reflect the breadth of content delivered beyond mentorship.
Meaning ‘strong as oak’, the name Atonia symbolises the wisdom, strength, resilience, endurance and growth of the programme’s participants.
Through a blend of personalised mentorship, virtual workshops and networking sessions, the programme is designed to elevate the careers of women and non-binary individuals working in whisky, contributing to a more equitable industry.
Graduates experience an overall 53% increase in confidence, building a long-lasting community of like-minded women around them, while 30% earn promotions or new roles in the whisky industry within 12 months of starting the programme.
Originally launched in 2022, the global programme has so far guided 200 women and non-binary individuals toward their goals, with 100% of graduates highly recommending the programme to others. As such, it now receives seven times more applications than places available.
This overwhelming demand has prompted a move away from a global approach and the establishment of new regional chapters that can provide more opportunities to those in need.
Applications are now being accepted for the first two regional Atonia Programmes in Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) and Ireland, from those working in the English, Welsh, Scottish and Irish whisky industries.
Just 25 places are available on each six-month programme (which runs May-October 2025), with participants assigned their own personal mentor according to their goals. The programme culminates in a graduation ceremony in November, at which graduates will receive a coveted Atonia pin and certificate.
Becky Paskin, founder, OurWhisky Foundation, said: “Our mentorship programme has rapidly become a beacon for women seeking to develop their careers in whisky, but until now we’ve been limited as to how many individuals we’ve been able to help.
“The new Atonia Programme is designed to provide a more in-depth and valuable experience, equipping women in whisky with vital personal and professional skills alongside a supportive community.
“We know the positive impact mentorship can have in developing confidence and career opportunities, and are excited to now extend the Atonia Programme to more women in whisky than ever.”
The Atonia Programme is open to any woman or non-binary individual seeking a career in whisky in participating regions, for the heavily subsidised cost of £249 (incl. VAT). A small number of scholarships will be available for applicants who are in a position of financial hardship.
Applications for both GB and Ireland’s Atonia Programmes are now being accepted here until 28 February 2025.
Further regional chapters beyond Great Britain and Ireland will be announced in due course.
