EUPSA CONNECT: A New Global Mentorship Initiative for Career Development and Well-Being in Pediatric Surgery.

Abstract

Aim: Recognizing that mentorship plays a central role in supporting the scholarly and professional development of early career pediatric surgeons, EUPSA (European Pediatric Surgeons' Association) launched the first, international mentorship initiative within pediatric surgery in Europe in 2024. One year after implementation, we aimed to evaluate whether EUPSA CONNECT has a positive impact on participants.

Methods: Following Executive Board approval, baseline (October 2024) and follow-up (December 2025) data were collected from 71 mentor-mentee pairs (58% female, 34 countries). Participant experience and program impact were assessed using validated survey questionnaires. Pre- and postintervention differences and gender-related effects were analyzed using Welch's t-tests, with effect sizes reported as Cohen's d.

Results: In total, 149 participants completed the questionnaires (48% mentees). Mentors had a median of 23 years of professional experience (interquartile range [IQR]: 14-28.5). Participants completed a median of 3 (IQR: 1-4.5), up to 12 mentorship sessions. One year after initiation, participants reported a reduced work-related burden (1.71 vs. 1.51; d = 0.09; p = 0.092) and self-condemnation (2.85 vs. 2.66; d = 0.06; p = 0.24). Female participants continued to report higher physical and emotional exhaustion, greater self-condemnation, and lower self-compassion and self-care than males (p < 0.05; d = 0.56-0.78). Mentees reported clearer career goals, improved communication, and collaboration skills, accompanied by achievements such as securing new positions, completing overseas rotations, and academic productivity. Overall, 88.1% would recommend EUPSA CONNECT.

Conclusions: EUPSA CONNECT shows high engagement and satisfaction, with improved experience of work demands and self-valuation. Participants further reported benefits in professional development and resilience, highlighting the potential of structured mentorship. Persistent gender differences highlight the need for targeted, equity-focused strategies.