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TBI Mentorship Program Update

On November 5, The Biotechnology Initiative (TBI) held its first “Meet and Greet” event for participants in the TBI Mentorship program.

The event kicked off the first round of TBI’s Mentorship Program, which produced 69 mentor-protégé matches. A training presentation, outlining how to get the best value from the mentoring relationship, was given by Anne Milochik, a project management consultant and experienced mentor.

Hosted by Ogilvy Renault, the event was extremely well received. Approximately 90 people attended, including program participants (mentors, protégés), members of the TBI Board and invited industry guests. Beverages and hors d’oeuvres were provided and guests were given the opportunity to meet other members of the program in an open, friendly and social setting.

One particularly interesting thing that happened was an impromptu mentoring session. During the event one of the more experienced mentors had a group of protégés who they spoke with separately in a boardroom, providing an opportunity to experience mentoring first-hand right there.

“The break-out mentoring session wasn't planned, but really showed the character of the event. People were there to mingle, meet others involved with the program and help each other,” said Christine Beyaert, TBI Mentorship Program Committee member and event organizer. “Personally, I thought it was fantastic. In my experience at many networking events there is not much mingling among students or entry-level and higher level industry professionals. The event was unique because it provided participants with a comfortable way to meet other industry professionals at every level. People in a variety of sectors and experience levels had an opportunity to engage with each other, which was great for event participants.”

According to Beyaert, attendees were all interested in sharing knowledge, several of which spoke of the "buzz" in the room and the positive atmosphere.

The first round of the program has now moved into its next stage where participants are meeting their counterpart, and outlining their goals and expectations.

“Moving forward, the Mentorship Committee is planning for our second round of applications,” said Jill Osborne, TBI Mentorship Program Chair. “These are due before January 27, 2010, and the next Meet and Greet will be held in early February.”

Designed for science and business professionals at any stage in their career, the TBI Mentorship Program matches professionals based on interests of protégés and industry experience of mentors to facilitate a good fit between the mentoring partners. TBI offers the program free to its members to facilitate their professional development and grow their network, while strengthening the life sciences industry.

To register for the next round, or for more information on the TBI Mentorship Program, please visit the website: www.ontbi.org/mentorship