The Value of Mentorship in the RSPD
22, January 2025
One of the most important elements of the Regional School for Political Development has been mentorship process, designed to guide participants as they transform their ideas into concrete policy proposals.
Throughout the program, dedicated mentors worked closely with participants, offering tailored support, constructive feedback, and professional guidance. They played a crucial role in leading young leaders from Serbia, Croatia, and North Macedonia through every stage of the policy development process – from brainstorming initial ideas, to refining arguments, and shaping the final policy papers.
This process proved essential in several ways:
- Turning ideas into action: Mentors helped participants refine their concepts into well-structured policy papers addressing real challenges.
- Building confidence: With expert guidance, participants developed stronger presentation and advocacy skills, preparing them to engage with decision-makers at national, regional and European levels.
- Creating role models: The mentorship process also highlighted the importance of intergenerational cooperation. By working with established professionals, young leaders saw firsthand how experience and innovation can come together to generate impact.
Participants frequently emphasized that mentorship was not only about knowledge transfer, but also about building relationships of trust and inspiration that will outlast the program itself.
The involvement of these mentors ensured that the Regional School was not just a training program, but a true learning journey, equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools and confidence to advocate for democratic and sustainable change.
Image by Freepik.

