Connecting generations: the ESPNIC mentorship bridge

Mentorship is crucial for career development in healthcare. This report describes the ESPNIC Mentorship Program, established in 2021, which pairs junior healthcare professionals with senior mentors to support career goals. Over four years, 83 pairs were formed, including diverse participants from various roles and countries. Demographic information and feedback forms from mentors and mentees were collected systematically via online surveys at 12-month intervals at the start and end of the program. These data were thematically evaluated to find important areas of satisfaction and recommendations for development. Participants from low and middle income countries were enrolled in the program as well representing 26% of the mentees (22/83) and 10% of mentors (7/67). Women represented 50% (34/67) of mentors; and 71% (59/83) of mentees. Key areas of collaboration included career development, research, international networking, and clinical support. The program emphasised a voluntary and non-judgemental approach, fostering a positive experience for both mentors and mentees, and Feedback from both mentors and mentees so far has been very positive. The ESPNIC Mentorship Program serves as a model for other professional societies seeking to enhance member support and foster career advancement in paediatric and neonatal critical care.