One year ago, the GEM initiative, GÉANT’s Mentorship Programme, launched with the ambition to create a space for professional connection, skills development, and reflection. What started as a concept has evolved into a proven, impactful programme that is strengthening expertise and creating lasting value across our community.
GEM has become a shared experience, shaped by connections and built on trust.
A community that grows together
From the outset, GEM was designed to bring people together, across roles, disciplines, and borders. It connects mentors and mentees from across the R&E Community giving them the opportunity to support one another’s development, share wisdom, and build confidence in a safe, inclusive, and flexible space.
Whether you’re navigating a career crossroads, stepping into leadership, or seeking bespoke learning, GEM offers both structure and freedom to make the journey your own.
“We grew together” – a mentor’s perspective
Rosanna Norman, who joined GEM as a mentor, shares her experience:
“When I first joined the programme as a mentor, I didn’t know what to expect. I was new to the experience. I’d been inspired and motivated by a former colleague whose insights gave me food for thought about my own career path.”
“There’s something genuinely rewarding in mentorship, not just in the obvious sense of giving back, but in the very human exchange that happens. It’s a two-way street. You start seeing things through somebody else’s eyes, and this changes you. It gives you a new perspective.”
“Some of the most memorable parts of the experience came from spontaneous conversations, the moments when you pause, reflect, and just listen. Sometimes that’s all someone needs: space, trust, and somebody who’s simply there.”
“Some benefit from structure, regular check-ins, clear goals. Others let conversation flow more freely, it depends on personality and timing. And in my view, that’s the beauty of it. It’s flexible, it’s human, and it works best when built on mutual respect and understanding.”
“What stood out was the growth, the mentees’ progress mirrored mine. Their insights made me reflect on my own choices and mindset. We grew together.”
“I’m grateful for the experience. Mentorship is about human connection, support, and a deep sense of trust.”
“You can’t replace the human touch” – A mentee’s insight
Andjela Arsovic, from AMRES, comments .
“I am truly happy and grateful to be part of GEM. It has provided me with invaluable insights and learning opportunities, and I deeply appreciate how thoughtfully and professionally it has been designed.”
“I’d like to give special recognition to my mentor, Hrachya Astsatryan, Director of the Armenian NREN, ASNET-AM. His expertise, dedication, and generosity in sharing his knowledge have had a profound impact on my development. He was always available for guidance, ensuring that every interaction was relevant and aligned with my current level of understanding.”
“It was a perfect match, and I couldn’t have asked for a better mentoring experience. I wholeheartedly recommend this programme and offer my sincere thanks to both the initiative and my mentor for such an enriching and rewarding journey.”
Andjela’s experience is just one of many testaments to the transformative power of a well-matched mentoring relationship, rooted in mutual respect, trust, and shared commitment to growth.
Celebrating GEM’s impact
Sarah Hughes, Head of Learning & Development, GÉANT Learning and Development department reflects on the impact so far:
“We are delighted to see our community benefitting from so much shared knowledge and wisdom through the GEM mentoring programme and we would love to see more participants using this fantastic platform. Sign up today and be a part of the journey!”
Is GEM for you?
If you’ve ever considered mentoring, or being mentored, this is your invitation.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking to give back (and learn something in return), an early-career colleague eager to gain direction and confidence, or simply curious about what mentorship could offer you, GEM is for you.
It’s not rigid or one-size-fits-all. It’s designed to fit your schedule and your goals. Whether you prefer structured sessions or open-ended conversations, the heart of GEM is connection, a space to listen, grow, reflect, and move forward.
Join the next chapter of GEM!
Discover GEM and register today!
Contact the GLAD team to learn more GLAD@GEANT.org
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