Health equity is not just an ideal—it's a necessity for better healthcare outcomes worldwide. The Cochrane US Health Equity Mentoring Program, launched in 2021 by Tiffany Duque and Ana Beatriz Pizarro, exemplifies this commitment by bridging the gap in evidence-based healthcare mentorship for students and professionals from marginalized and underrepresented backgrounds. It is directed nowadays by Tiffany Duque and coordinated by Ana Beatriz Pizarro, Karla Duque Jacome, and Paola Andrenacci, all of them with Cochrane on their background as volunteers.

As the program reaches its fourth year, it has evolved into a powerful platform for nurturing future health leaders and amplifying diverse voices in global health research.

The Beginning of a Movement

The program started with a clear goal: to serve minority, under-resourced, and/or historically discriminated against participants to contribute to Cochrane's goal of improving health equity through access and availability to trusted health evidence for all.  and to have access to mentorship and training opportunities often out of reach. From its beginning, the initiative aimed to address systemic disparities in healthcare research and equip mentees to drive change in their communities. Year 1 in its preliminary pilot welcomed nine mentees and four dedicated mentors, laying a strong foundation.

Mentees year 1 

Mentees year 2

Mentees year 3 

Mentees year 4 

Growth and Expansion

The demand for the program skyrocketed in its second year, reflecting the global need for inclusive mentorship. Applications surged from 93 in Year 1 to an incredible 371 in Year 2, spanning 40 countries. The cohort size tripled, with 27 mentees, now paired with 17 individual mentors. The program fostered connections across continents, creating a vibrant, diverse community committed to health equity.

In Year 3, the program continued to refine its processes, introducing a robust equity-focused application tool. This innovation ensured transparency in the selection of mentees, highlighting the program’s dedication to fairness. Alumni from previous cohorts stepped up as mentors, underscoring the program's emphasis on sustainable growth and leadership development.

Distribution of the biggest cohort until today – Y4

Year 4 has had an amazing start with the biggest cohort of the day. 2024 marks a significant milestone with over 3,000 applications from 74 countries—a testament to the program’s reputation and impact. This year also welcomes new collaborations and enhanced mentorship structures, promising another transformative experience for the selected mentees and mentors.

Key Features of the Program

• Tailored Support: Each mentee is paired with a mentor whose expertise aligns with their goals, ensuring personalized guidance throughout the 12-month journey.
• Global Representation: The program spans continents, fostering a unique exchange of ideas and perspectives among mentees and mentors from diverse backgrounds.

Global Cohort Map: Showcasing mentees' and mentors' countries of origin.

• Capacity Building: Mentees engage in evidence synthesis projects, networking events, and skill-building workshops, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to global health research.

Impact Beyond Numbers

The program’s success is measured not just in its impressive statistics—over 600 applications from 50+ countries in three years—but in its tangible outcomes. Mentees have gone on to lead research initiatives, advocate for evidence-based healthcare, and replicate mentorship models in their communities. They become ambassadors for Cochrane’s mission, advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in education, gender equality, and reducing inequalities.

Looking Ahead

The future is bright for the Cochrane US Health Equity Mentoring Program. As it grows, so does its potential to influence global health systems. By continuing to prioritize diversity, inclusion, and equity, Cochrane is not only addressing disparities but also laying the groundwork for a healthier, more equitable world.

Mentorship in Action: Screenshots from virtual training sessions and networking events.

Call to Action: If you are passionate about empowering underrepresented voices in global health, consider joining or supporting the Cochrane US Mentoring Program. Together, we can make a difference.

Written by Karla Duque Jacome and Ana Beatriz Pizarro