First-Ever Speed Mentoring Sessions to Debut at ESCRS

The Building Our Sustainable, Inclusive Society (BOSS) team will introduce the first-ever Speed Mentoring Sessions at ESCRS 2024. Scheduled 6–9 September, these sessions offer a new format for professional development by facilitating brief, focused interactions between emerging talent and more than 40 experienced experts in ophthalmology. 

Founded by ESCRS President Filomena Ribeiro, 2024 also marks the inaugural launch of the ESCRS inclusivity initiative. “The purpose of BOSS is to foster an environment within ESCRS where everyone feels they have a place,” said Kristine Morrill, ESCRS consultant and BOSS member. “We’ve created a year-round programme that gives opportunities for members to network and create an environment for career and personal development.”

Each mentorship session will last one hour and allow mentees ten-minute discussion rotations with six mentors, offering the opportunity to benefit from diverse perspectives and expertise with mentors coming from various domains within ophthalmology, including ESCRS leadership, prominent ophthalmologists, and industry innovators. The overwhelming interest in these sessions has already led to a complete booking of all available spots, reflecting the high demand for mentorship opportunities at the Congress.

“We’ve been really surprised and grateful by the response,” explained Morrill. “The mentors are senior leaders in the industry, key opinion leaders from all around the world, and even the first and second female presidents of ESCRS, Marie-José Tassignon and Béatrice Cochener-Lamard.”

These interactions are designed to provide valuable career advice, share insights into various subspecialties, and offer guidance on navigating the ophthalmic field. Mentees can expect personalised feedback and answers to specific questions during the one-on-one discussions.

The sessions will cover a range of topics, including the latest trends in ophthalmology, research advancements, and career development strategies. This tailored approach ensures participants gain relevant insights to stay ahead in their profession and can help foster networking connections that could benefit their careers for years to come.

Expected to be a standout feature, the introduction of Speed Mentoring at ESCRS 2024 highlights the importance of mentorship in professional development. Studies have consistently shown mentorship plays a crucial role in career success, and these sessions provide mentees with the opportunity to build their professional networks.

In addition to the speed mentorship, BOSS has organised a series of events designed to foster inclusivity and networking among attendees, including the Boss Networking Mocktail Party. This new initiative underscores the Society’s dedication to supporting the growth and development of the next generation of ophthalmology professionals.