Exploring the Contribution of Mentors in Mentoring Programs for Migrants in Norway

Mentoring promotes integration of migrants, but little is known about the mechanisms of success. We explore the particular contribution and experience of mentors in mentoring for migrants. We conducted 17 semi-structured interviews with program leaders, mentors and mentees in three mentoring programs in two cities in Norway. Organisational factors, the quality of the relationship between mentors and mentees, type of information given and skills taught are important to facilitate labour market integration and social participation. Mentors valued training, space and opportunity to meet with other mentors and reciprocity. Mentoring in teams (one Norwegian and one peer mentor) was particularly effective.