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Built to Last Professional Development Mentorship Program

A dynamic mentorship program designed to support Sydney Opera House (SOH) BUILD alumni as they step into the built environment industry. Through this program, students in architecture, engineering, planning and industrial design are paired with industry mentors, guiding them on their professional journey. 

Dates and times

Upon application by the participating university in SOH BUILD.

Program information

To find out more about participating in Sydney Opera House Built to Last, please contact us via email:

About the program

Built to Last offers 10 SOH BUILD alumni, in their second year of tertiary study or above, the chance to be mentored by a diverse group of young professionals, including Sydney Opera House’s MADE alumni and industry leaders. This hands-on, immersive program is designed to fast-track professional growth while building lasting industry connections.

Participants will benefit from a 6-month program designed to open doors into professional practices. The program includes one-on-one mentoring sessions, industry day-outs and networking opportunities, providing invaluable insights into real-world practice.

Key benefits in participating

The Built to Last program continues the professional and personal development for built environment university students that they commenced through participation in the SOH BUILD program, by creating broader access to the local built environment industry. 

The program develops both perspectives and leadership capabilities as students begin their journeys of entering the built environment industry, by learning from industry peers.

Mentees are given a unique opportunity to access the professional built environment industry connections and networks that the Sydney Opera House brings as both a marvel of 20th Century architecture and engineering, and as a UNESCO World Heritage listed site.

Selection Criteria:

Commitment to professional growth
Applicants should demonstrate a clear desire to advance in their chosen field and an ability to benefit from mentorship, showing commitment to their long-term professional development.

Interest in the Built Environment industry
Candidates should express genuine interest in pursuing a career within the built environment, including but not limited to architecture, engineering, or related industries.

Contribution to inclusivity and diversity
Applicants should have a personal and professional commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity within their field.

Capacity to participate in all program activities
Applicants must commit to participating fully in the program’s structured activities, including:

  • 5 one-on-one mentoring sessions
  • Industry day-outs and networking events
  • Social and professional development events
  • Program conclusion and evaluation activities
  • Goal-setting and personal vision
  • Candidates should be able to articulate their career aspirations and show an interest in setting and achieving concrete goals with their mentor’s support

Built to Last is a mentorship program delivered by Sydney Opera House Trust with the participation of the following mentors and organisations:

Nicholas Bucci (Architecture AND), Billie-Grace Dunk, HONEYWELL, Diane Jones (PTW), Annabel Koeck ( HASSELL) Rachel Liang, Awkar Ruel (Grimshaw Global), Jacob Levy (SJB), Nicola Shear (ARUP), Emrah Baki Ulas (Steensen Varming), Andrew Weetman (ARUP).

2025 Mentees and Mentors

Congratulations to our first group of 2025 successful applicants!