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THE MAHLALELA MENTORSHIP PROGRAMME

ABOUT

The Mahlalela Mentorship Programme is co-designed by the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI), the Association of Polar Early Career Scientists of South Africa (APECS SA) and the South African Network for Coastal and Oceanic Research (SANCOR). The programme aims to foster professional development within the marine and polar research community by connecting postgraduate students and early career researchers with experienced mentors. Based on a community needs assessment, the programme will support the development and career progression of emerging researchers by facilitating the sharing of best practices, innovative ideas, specialised knowledge, and essential skills, thereby enriching the entire community.

THE NAME

The Mahlalela Mentorship Programme is named after Dr Precious Mahlalela (1995-2023), a former LTO-Ocean (Long-term Observations of the Ocean) Research Coordinator for the South African Polar Research Infrastructure. The Mahlalela Clan, which translates to “listen,” embodies a profound sense of generosity and compassion. Individuals bearing this name are often driven by a deep commitment to serving others, frequently dedicating their time and talents to charitable endeavours. They strive to be their best selves in every aspect of life, actively seeking out volunteer opportunities to uplift those around them. This spirit of selflessness and dedication to community exemplifies the essence of their name, reflecting a harmonious blend of listening and action in their pursuit of making a positive impact. The Mahlalela Mentorship Programme aims to foster the same sentiment of inclusivity and community.

VISION

To empower and connect polar and marine early-career researchers (ECRs), fostering a vibrant, diverse and transformed community that strengthens South Africa’s position as a global leader in polar and marine research. Through mentorship, we aim to inspire and support the next generation to contribute to scientific innovation, environmental stewardship, and national development. By empowering ECRs, the programme strengthens the future workforce in marine and polar research and ensures the sustainability of research efforts in these critical domains.

MISSION

The mentorship programme seeks to enhance skills, build capacity, and create opportunities for collaboration among emerging marine and polar researchers. Aligned with the missions of SAPRI, SANCOR and APECS SA, the programme will provide a platform for knowledge exchange and professional growth. By connecting experienced researchers with early-career researchers, the mentorship programme aims to foster interest in polar and marine careers, improve accessibility and inclusivity in these vital fields, and develop a skilled, diverse workforce.

KEY AIMS

  • Stimulate the interest of young South Africans in pursuing careers in polar and marine fields, ensuring a sustainable research community for the future. An emphasis is placed on skills development and strengthening the future workforce
  • Promote diversity and transformation with a focus on underrepresented groups and tertiary institutions
  • Develop a network of empowered, engaged researchers who actively contribute to scientific discourse and collaborate on national and global research initiatives
  • Encourage Peer to Peer Communication which encourages sharing knowledge and skills within the marine and polar research field

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

Iteration 1: Power skills development

This iteration features a webinar series focused on foundational research skills applicable to all participants, whether mentor or mentee. Topics covered include CV building, conflict resolution, data handling and analysis, effective supervision techniques, and science communication. Concurrent participation by mentors and mentees promotes shared learning, fosters best practice dissemination, and cultivates a sense of community. This webinar series is scheduled for early 2025, with specific dates to be announced.

Iteration 2: Targeted skills development

This iteration focuses on targeted marine and polar skills development through individualised mentorship. While not intended to replace formal supervisory relationships, the programme also offers mentors the opportunity to refine their own supervisory skills. Mentors and mentees will be matched, and individual sessions will be organised to address technical challenges and obstacles encountered in current research or projects. Mentors can also provide guidance on topics such as those covered in the webinar series, or offer more specialised technical support based on their area of expertise. The finer details of this iteration are still in development and will be communicated on this web page when finalised.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

Mentorship Programme sign up

EVENTS

Upcoming Events:
Launch of the MMP Iteration I: Power skills development

Join us for the seventh webinar in our series, Financial Literacy: Money for Those Who Matter Most- Students & Entrepreneurs.

Financial Literacy will focus on how emerging researchers can access funding, manage both professional and personal budgets, gain personal finance tips for early-career professionals, and build confidence in handling their money.

  • 20 August 2025
  • 13:00 – 14:00
Join Webinar
Past Events:

CONTACT

For enquiries regarding the mentorship programme, please contact the SAPRI Engagement Officer:
Kelebogile (Kelly) Mogotsi

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SAPRI participates in the IASSIST 2025 Conference in Bristol, UK

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