Cristina Mancini, the CEO of Black Girls Code, has shared her perspective on the difference between mentors and sponsors in the corporate world, reflecting on her own career path through major companies in media and technology. Before stepping into her current role leading the nonprofit, Mancini held senior leadership positions including executive vice president at 20th Century Studios and chief marketing officer and chief engagement officer at Salesforce. She credits much of her advancement to the guidance of mentors and the direct support of sponsors who played a role in helping her move forward in her career.
At the Fast Company Innovation Festival, Mancini explained that while mentors provide advice, feedback, and encouragement, sponsors go further by creating opportunities and opening doors that individuals might not otherwise access. She noted that her own professional development was accelerated by both types of relationships, but sponsorship proved especially critical in shaping her path in the technology sector.
One example came during her time at 20th Century Studios in 2015, when she was tasked with finding new ways to deepen audience engagement through digital platforms. Although she had clear goals, she encountered challenges when the IT executive assigned to her team did not offer the support she needed. While looking for alternative solutions, she caught the attention of John Herbert, the chief information officer at the company. Instead of criticizing her efforts, he took the time to understand what she was trying to achieve and offered guidance. He also introduced her to connections at major technology companies such as HP and Microsoft, which helped her gain confidence and establish her footing in the tech space.
This experience, she explained, demonstrated the difference between a mentor and a sponsor. Mentors, in her view, are valuable for reviewing resumes and offering advice, but sponsors provide direct access to opportunities, ensuring individuals are present in spaces where key decisions are made and where they can form their own networks.
Now, as the head of Black Girls Code, Mancini leads initiatives designed to prepare young people and adults for careers in technology. The organization has equipped over 40,000 students with skills in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). Its mission includes reaching one million girls of color by 2040 through culturally responsive education programs for youth and workforce development opportunities for adults over 18.
Reflecting on her role, Mancini emphasized that the technology field is open to people at any stage of life. She encouraged individuals to engage with opportunities regardless of their background or timing, stressing that starting is the most important step. For her, the combination of mentorship and sponsorship remains central to helping others pursue and succeed in the tech industry, just as it shaped her own career path.
