The Power of Mentorship: A Journey of Growth and Collaboration

In this perspective, Atlantic Fellow Umesh Bogati reflects on how mentorship at the Global Brain Health Institute has shaped his journey to improve dementia care and support in Nepal.

^{Kate Possin and Umesh Bogati celebrate at the graduation celebration for the 2023 Atlantic Fellows for Equity in Brain Health. Photo by Cindy Chew.}

As an Atlantic Fellow for Equity in Brain Health, I have experienced mentorship that is both transformative and deeply personal. At the Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI), mentorship is not simply a program; it is part of the culture. It brings people together across disciplines and countries, fostering collaboration, inclusion, and growth. This mentorship that has empowered me to pursue my passion for improving dementia care and geriatric health in Nepal.

Guidance that Shapes a Vision

From the start of my fellowship, I was paired with Dr. Kate Possin, Professor of Neurology at UCSF whose work in dementia research and cognitive assessment has shaped how I approach care in resource-limted settings. She encouraged me to design culturally sensitive interventions and to focus on reducing stigma and empowering families. Her guidance has reminded me that meaningful change begins at the community level.

Yet mentorship at GBHI extends far beyond one individual. The collective support from faculty, administrative team, and my peers has created an environment where I feel empowered to take bold steps in advancing brain health equity.

Shared Learning Across a Global Community

I have benfitted from a wide network of mentors from fields such as neuroscience, public health, economics, and advocacy.  Conversations with social scientists about community engagement and discussions with policy experts about health systems have broadened my understanding of brain health. Administrative members have also offered valuable advice and encouragement, helping me turn ideas into action.

Peer mentorship has been another vital part of this journey. The fellowship brings together people from many backgrounds, and my peers have constantly inspired me—sharing insights, collaborating on projects, and challenging me to think differently. This spirit of mutual respect has been invaluable in my growth.

This mentorship has empowered me to pursue my passion for improving dementia care and geriatric health in Nepal.

—Umesh Bogati, Atlantic Fellow for Equity in Brain Health

A Culture of Growth That Lasts

What makes mentorship at GBHI stand out is its focus on mutual growth. It is not just about receiving guidance; it is about meaningful conversations, challenging assumptions, and learning together. My mentors have welcomed my ideas as a physician working in Nepal and have encouraged me to draw on my local experiences. Through this exchange, I have grown more confident in my ability to contribute to global brain health while learning from others’ expertise.

GBHI also offers a safe and inclusive space where fellows can take risks, try new approaches, and learn from mistakes. This openness has given me the courage to test innovative ideas for dementia care and to think creatively about policy and community-based interventions.

Perhaps most inspiring is that these mentorship relationships do not end when the fellowship does. Faculty, administrative team members, and peers continue to offer advice, feedback, and encouragement long after formal training ends. This ongoing support reflects the heart of GBHI: a global community of leaders committed to brain health equity.

As I reflect on my journey, I am deeply grateful to Dr. Kate Possin and other faculty mentors, to the administrative team, and to my peers whose support has been constant. Their mentorship has strengthened my resolve to empower others in my community. 

Mentorship at GBHI is more than guidance; it is a living testament of how collaboration and shared purpose can drive lasting change. To my mentors, peers, and the entire GBHI family: thank you for being part of this transformative journey.