Empowering Through Mentorship: A Narrative Inquiry into the Experiences of Black South African PhD Mentors

Despite progress in education equity, significant disparities persist in the demographics of PhD graduates in South Africa. While Black South Africans constitute the majority of the population, they remain underrepresented among doctoral graduates. This paper explores the personal experiences of a Black South African PhD graduate who has spent nearly a decade assisting and mentoring PhD candidates from diverse backgrounds. The main question this paper seeks to address is: How do personal mentoring experiences contribute to the success and retention of PhD candidates, particularly those from underrepresented groups? The theoretical framework for this study is based on Critical Race Theory (CRT), which examines the role of race and racism in perpetuating social disparities. CRT is relevant as it provides insights into the structural challenges faced by Black PhD candidates and the importance of mentorship in overcoming these barriers. Methodologically, this study adopts a qualitative approach, relying on narrative inquiry to capture the nuanced experiences of the author. As the focus is on personal experiences, there is no sampling or sample size. Ethical considerations include maintaining the confidentiality and anonymity of the mentees, as well as obtaining their consent for sharing specific anecdotes. Proposed findings suggest that personalized mentorship plays a crucial role in not only academic success but also in building confidence and resilience among PhD candidates. The significance of this study lies in highlighting the impact of mentorship on diversifying the academic landscape and providing insights into effective support mechanisms for future PhD candidates.