On 15 January, the FISU Springboard Programme 2024 took its next steps as mentors and mentees gathered online to look ahead to plans for the upcoming year. Hosted by Education Committee members Donna Spethman and Bill Thompson, and with greetings from FISU President Leonz Eder and FISU Vice President and Education Committee Chair Verena Burk, this session provided mentees the opportunity to ask questions and gain more comfort with what to expect from the programme.
Mentors and mentees are expected to hold their first meeting by the end of January, leading to a mentor agreement in the following month. That agreement will outline key themes and topics of importance to the mentee, responsibilities and expectations for both, and ultimately the mentee’s goals from the relationship. Roughly one meeting a month is expected to be held between mentors and mentees up to November, with feedback on the programme to come at that stage.
As part of the session, participants not only discussed key tips in understanding their responsibilities, but also elements that can make for a strong mentor relationship. The importance for trust and open communication came up often as a key component for great discussions to ensue. Additionally, participants spoke about the value of the Springboard Programme being the ability to learn about themselves and share experiences, the potential to improve and grow networks, the creation of lifetime relationships, as well as wanting to grow and equally help someone else to grow.
Two participants provided their views on what they feel makes for a successful mentoring relationship. Paiwast Amanj, from Iraq, said, “The experience and meeting new people and friends are the main things that drove me into working with FISU and still drive me to hop out of my comfort zone and learn as much as I can.” Uganda’s Bridget Umutoni added about her wishes for the programme, “Connecting with someone new and learning from a person’s experience who is in a circle or place that I want to be in.”
The final element of the session focused on the responsibilities of the mentees in driving the process and the relationship. As there is no curriculum, it was highlighted that it is up to them to identify topics they wish to discuss and to be prepared with thoughts and questions. Also implored was the importance of openness and honesty within the relationship so that both parties can gain from the programme. Whether mentees wish to discuss work or general life related aspects, being as open as possible was noted as a key for creating value from the interactions.
Mentors and mentees are being introduced to set the FISU Springboard Programme on its way for 2024. This programme is another education great pillar for FISU to help develop the next generation of sport leaders.