Mentoring Programme Connects Generations at the 41st IAHR World Congress
The second edition of the IAHR Technical Committee on Education and Professionals Development mentoring initiative strengthens connections between young scholars and experienced IAHR members
The 41st IAHR World Congress once again proved to be a vibrant space for networking, knowledge sharing, and building professional connections. This year, young professionals and new IAHR members had the opportunity to benefit from the second edition of the IAHR Mentoring Programme, organised by the IAHR Technical Committee on Education and Professional Development.
Following the success of its launch at the 40th IAHR World Congress in Vienna, the programme paired more than 15 long-standing IAHR members with over 30 young scholars – an average of two mentees per mentor. These pairs engaged in informal but meaningful conversations during coffee breaks and lunches, discussing not only technical topics but also career development and the personal experiences of scientists working in the field.
The format was deliberately kept flexible, allowing mentors and mentees to define their own discussion topics and dynamics. This approach encouraged open dialogue and facilitated genuine exchanges without rigid constraints.
Post-Congress feedback highlighted a high level of satisfaction from both mentors and mentees. Participants valued the chance to learn from one another and to connect beyond scientific discussions, reinforcing the importance of mentorship within the IAHR community.
The positive reception of this initiative reflects a clear need: young scholars seek guidance as they integrate into IAHR and the wider professional arena, and experienced members are willing to share their time, expertise, and perspectives. Building on this success, the Technical Committee on Education and Professionals Development plans to continue fostering mentoring and exchange opportunities in future IAHR events.
Testimonies
"Very grateful to participate in the mentoring sessions. Got encouraged a lot by the mentor"
"It was fun to connect with the young scientists"
"I loved my mentor. I have never seen someone as friendly and as inclusive as she was. She helped me understand what the conference was about, introduced me to the key personalities present in the conference and helped me in navigating my first ever international conference. She also suggested which sessions I should attend after understanding my field of work. I loved her!"
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IAHR Technical Committee on Education and Professional Development