Russian State University for Humanities launches international mentorship programme for BRICS and CIS youth

The Russian State University for the Humanities has launched an international mentorship programme designed to help students and young professionals from BRICS and CIS countries unlock their leadership and career potential. The initiative is organised by the Russian State University for Humanities Centre for Knowledge Diplomacy, a partner of TV BRICS.

Aimed at participants aged 18 to 35, the programme brings together aspiring specialists, postgraduates and students with experienced mentors from academia, business and non-profit sectors. Structured around seven sessions, it guides participants from goal-setting to the creation of a detailed one-year personal development plan.

“The Knowledge Diplomacy programme is not just an educational initiative but a tool for shaping a new model of international cooperation based on trust, partnership and shared knowledge,” said Kirill Kostin, Head of the Centre for Knowledge Diplomacy.

Mentors include experts from across the BRICS and CIS regions – such as Brazilian geopolitical researcher Rodolfo Laterza, Indian professor of international studies Preeti Das, Chinese economist Jian Lian, and South African youth cooperation specialist Raymond Matlala. During the series of meetings, participants will discuss their individual projects, exchange experiences and explore opportunities for intercultural collaboration.

“I am glad to share with young people in Russia the stories and experiences of China – including our social development and career paths – so that they can identify opportunities for their own growth and consider new ways of cooperation with China,” noted Jian Lian.

Each session of the programme has a specific focus. Participants begin with a deep self-assessment and creation of a “goal map”, then move on to prioritisation, project structuring and step-by-step planning. The programme concludes with the development of a final “roadmap for growth” and individual mentor recommendations for further reading and professional training.

Applications can be submitted through the official website of the Russian State University for the Humanities.

Photo: jacoblund / iStock