NextGen Health Leadership Programme

by mm9730 / Thursday, 21 May 2026 / Published in Uncategorized

The NextGen Health Leadership Programme is a mentorship and leadership development initiative established by Circle Point Consultancy to support and empower the next generation of public health professionals in Botswana. Founded under the vision of Dr Wame Dikobe, the programme was created to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice by equipping graduates with the skills, networks, and confidence needed to thrive within the public health and healthcare sector.

The programme is specifically designed for public health graduates and emerging professionals who are passionate about leadership, community impact, health advocacy, and strengthening health systems. Through mentorship, professional development sessions, networking opportunities, and practical engagement with industry leaders, participants gain valuable insight into the realities and opportunities within the public health field.

Over the course of six months, mentees participate in interactive sessions led by experienced healthcare professionals, facilitators, and mentors from diverse backgrounds. Topics covered include leadership development, mental health, healthcare innovation, communication, professionalism, career development, research, entrepreneurship, and public health systems. The programme also encourages collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving to prepare participants to become impactful leaders within their communities and workplaces.

A key component of the programme involved mentees developing and designing project proposals focused on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). Through this process, participants were encouraged to identify pressing public health challenges affecting communities and create innovative, sustainable, and community-driven solutions. This practical component strengthened their research, proposal writing, teamwork, and strategic planning skills while deepening their understanding of SRHR advocacy and intervention design.

Cohort 1 of the programme officially ran from October 2025 to April 2026 and began with 10 selected mentees from various public health backgrounds. Throughout the programme, mentees demonstrated dedication, growth, and a strong commitment to contributing positively to the healthcare and public health landscape. The cohort concluded with a graduation ceremony celebrating the achievements and development of the participants over the six-month journey.

The NextGen Health Leadership Programme is more than a mentorship initiative it is a platform dedicated to nurturing ethical, innovative, and community-driven leaders who will shape the future of public health in Botswana and beyond.

Programme Objectives

– Support the professional growth of public health graduates and emerging professionals

– Develop leadership, communication, and career readiness skills

– Provide mentorship and industry exposure

– Promote innovation, collaboration, and critical thinking in public health

– Strengthen knowledge and advocacy around Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)

– Inspire community impact and public health advocacy

Vision

To cultivate a new generation of public health leaders equipped to drive meaningful and sustainable change within communities and health systems.

Mission

To empower aspiring public health professionals through mentorship, leadership development, professional exposure, and collaborative learning experiences.