Reverse mentoring – a useful tool for integrating into the system and making a change

Abstract

Introduction: Reverse mentoring is useful for closing the generational gap,improving inclusion, and developing skills. Here, a junior team membermentors a senior team member. The scheme run by the Future LeadersProgram is open to International Medical Graduates (IMGs) in Yorkshireand Humber. The aim is to close the differential attainment gap byencouraging Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) conversations.Method: Matching is done by MentorNet®. Mentor training consists ofhandbook, induction, and supervision meetings. We planned for threevirtual meetings within 6 months.• Session 1 – Aims and lived experience.• Session 2 – What does it take to feel safe, valued, and accepted?• Session 3: Setting up IMGs to succeed and the impact of the first placementon their careers.Discussion: Reverse mentoring is beyond sharing bad experiences as itcreates avenues for reflection and insights on how to better integrate intothe system.We do not need to have a bad experience before we advocate for EDIin our workplace. Sharing positive experiences is a powerful tool.Pairing Nigerian Junior doctors in the UK with senior doctors inNigeria would reduce the impact of ‘brain drain’ and be a positive toolfor exchanging knowledge and skills with the Nigerian workforce.’