Applications for 2026 Atonia Programme open
Non-profit organisation the OurWhisky Foundation has opened applications for the 2026 edition of the Atonia Programme, its personal and professional development course for women in whisky.
First launched in 2022, the global programme has so far guided more than 250 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.
The programme offers a blend of personalised mentorship, virtual workshops and networking sessions, and is designed to elevate the careers of women and non-binary individuals working in whisky, contributing to a more equitable industry.
Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Atonia Programme, with this year’s edition open to any woman or non-binary individual based in Great Britain and Ireland looking to progress their career in whisky.
Just 25 places are available on the six-month programme, which will run from June through to November 2026.
For the duration of the programme, participants are assigned their own personal mentor according to their goals.
It will then culminate in a graduation ceremony in Edinburgh in January 2027, at which graduates will receive a coveted Atonia pin and certificate.
Becky Paskin, founder of the OurWhisky Foundation, said: “As the OurWhisky Foundation enters its fifth year of operation, we couldn’t be more excited to welcome a further 25 women+ in whisky into our highly respected and globally-renowned Atonia Programme.
“Every year, we’re beyond proud to witness the evolution of our graduates’ confidence, motivation and inspirational workplace achievements, as they form a tight-knit, supportive community that transcends borders and categories.
“I’m excited to see who will be selected for this year’s programme, and the incredible accomplishments they’ll go on to achieve.”
Graduates of the programme are said to experience a 53% increase in confidence after having built 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.
Victoria Charlton, luxury brand ambassador at Diageo and a 2025 participant of the Atonia Programme, said of her experience: “The Atonia Programme truly empowers you to take control of your own path. It’s helped me find my voice and clarity around my goals. This programme gave me the confidence and tools to step forward without apology. It’s genuinely transformative, both personally and professionally.”
The Atonia Programme is open for the subsidised cost of £200 (US$270) plus VAT.
A small number of scholarships will be available for applicants who are in a position of financial hardship.
Applications for participants, known as acorns, for the 2026 Atonia Programme are now being accepted at www.ourwhiskyfoundation.org/atonia-programme until 6 March 2026.
Applications from experienced members of the industry to become mentors for the programme are also open.
Candidates may be located anywhere globally and identify as any gender, but must have at least five years experience in their field of expertise.
Mentors will be added to the database and contacted if a suitable match is found.
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