The Medical Women's Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Lagos State chapter, recently hosted an event to honor its esteemed elder members and past leaders, while simultaneously emphasizing the critical need for robust mentorship programs and improved work-life balance for female doctors. The gathering, themed 'An Evening With Our Elders,' served as a platform to bridge generational divides within the medical profession and celebrate the legacy of experienced practitioners.

Dr. Ime Maria Okon, President of MWAN Lagos, highlighted the association's commitment to recognizing the invaluable contributions of its senior members, many of whom may feel isolated after retiring from active service. "We must not leave our elders behind. They have given so much to this association and to healthcare," Dr. Okon stated, underscoring the importance of drawing from their wealth of experience [1].

Central to MWAN's current initiatives is the push for enhanced mentorship. The association is actively pairing younger female doctors with senior colleagues to foster professional growth, provide guidance, and offer support that extends beyond the hospital walls. "Mentorship is something we value in MWAN. We are pairing younger doctors with senior colleagues so they can learn, grow and also receive guidance on life beyond the hospital," explained Dr. Okon [1]. Research consistently shows that mentorship is vital for women in medicine, helping them navigate career challenges, gain confidence, and advance in their fields [2, 5, 11].

The event also shed light on the persistent struggle female doctors face in achieving work-life balance. Dr. Okon acknowledged that many female physicians grapple with the demands of balancing demanding careers with family responsibilities, particularly childcare and school schedules, often without adequate support at work [1, 4, 6]. The association aims to provide resources and strategies to help these women find a sustainable equilibrium between their professional and personal lives.

Participants found the event inspiring, reinforcing the significance of intergenerational connections within the medical community. MWAN Lagos' efforts align with its guiding principle of 'Leaving No One Behind,' demonstrating a dedication to strengthening bonds across generations and advocating for the advancement of women in healthcare [1].