Program Objectives
The Mentorship Program provides scientific, strategic, and organizational support for projects aligned with the global mission of the Angels Initiative: To ensure that every stroke patient receives the best possible care.
Selected mentees will work closely with renowned mentors in stroke care to develop and implement high-impact projects. Mentors will offer guidance, motivation, and expertise throughout the journey.
Why Launch This Program in Sub-Saharan Africa?
- Because the success of the first mentorship program in South America showed the power of collaboration.
- Because the need for improved stroke care in Africa is urgent and growing.
- Because mentorship is a proven way to build capacity and drive sustainable change.
TIMELINE
Project Submission Deadline: October 22, 2025
Selected Mentees Announced: November 5, 2025
Kick-off Online Meeting: November 19, 2025
In-person Mentor-Mentee Meeting @ Angels Day in Kenya: November 28 & 29, 2025
Follow-up Online Meetings: December 2025 - May 2026
Program Closing Event: May 2026
HOW IT WORKS - YOUR ROLE IN THE JOURNEY
This is a collaborative experience, and your energy and commitment will make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll be doing:
Show up and engage
All meetings are held via video call—with your camera on. We want to connect, not just communicate.
Be prepared and proactive
Before each meeting, you’ll send your mentor a clear update:
-Your goals
-Your plan and progress
-What’s still pending or challenging
Shape your project together
You’ll work with your mentor to refine your goals, build an action plan, and set a timeline with concrete tasks.
Stay consistent
You’ll meet at least once a month—sometimes more often at the beginning to build momentum.
Take the lead
You’re in charge of scheduling and making meetings happen, while being flexible with your mentor’s availability.
Get support from the Angels team
We may join some meetings to help guide and support your progress.
Track your growth
You and your mentor will submit short monthly progress reports. At the end of the program, you’ll both write a final reflection on your journey.
Mentors
Our mentors are experienced leaders in stroke care from South Africa, Spain and Ukraine. They will guide you through every step of your project.
You’ll also be supported by the Angels regional team, who will help facilitate meetings, provide resources, and ensure your success:
Tamara Zabashta, Angels Senior Consultant, Ukraine
tamara.zabashta@iqvia.com
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply?
Physicians who are proficient in English and registered with the Angels Initiative in Sub-Saharan Africa—specifically in Kenya, Nigeria, Namibia, or Mauritius.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. The program is free for participants.
What types of projects are eligible?
We welcome a wide range of stroke-related initiatives. Eligible projects may include, but are not limited to:
- Establishing a Stroke Service:
Creating or expanding dedicated stroke care units within hospitals.
- Hospital Process Improvement:
Projects focused on optimizing stroke protocols, reducing door-to-needle times, increasing treatment rates, improving decision-making processes, integrating EMS, or strengthening stroke networks.
- Telemedicine Solutions:
Implementing or enhancing remote stroke care systems to improve access and response times.
How many projects will be selected?
Six projects will be chosen and matched with mentors. A selection committee will evaluate all submissions.
How long will the advice that the Mentor will give me last?
Each project will receive mentorship for up to 6 months, with recognition on the Angels Initiative website.
Mentoring Example
In 2023, our South American program received 116 applications and selected 14 projects. One inspiring story:
HOPE, WILL AND EMPATHY
Dr. Ignacio Girolimini wanted to improve stroke care in his small town in Argentina. With guidance from Dr. Claudio Jiménez in Colombia, he transformed his hospital’s stroke response. Their journey was one of hope, determination, and empathy.