PROGRAMMING’s throughtful approach to leadership
PROGRAMMING, a network dedicated to bridging gaps in geriatric medicine, empowers young researchers and innovators in numerous ways by combining support for scientific and clinical expertise, capacity building, leadership development, and active involvement in high-impact scientific and policy activities.
Since its kick-off, younger members have actively been involved in the Action’s leadership structure. For instance, taking on roles such as co-leaders or additional leaders within Working Groups, ensuring representation in decision-making and coordination processes. One such example is Dr Rui Buzaco who became the ‘New Members’ Guide’ within the PROGRAMMING network.
Serving as the New Members Guide for the PROGRAMMING COST Action has been an absolute game-changer for my early career. Helping to drive the momentum of a vibrant community of over 400 members from 35+ European countries meant I was working shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the most inspiring leaders in geriatric medicine. Together, we actively designed strategies to welcome new peers, build engagement, and keep this incredible network dynamic.
Dr Rui Buzaco, PROGRAMMING COST Action
In this role he is responsible for assisting each Management Committee Members in updating the list of pending applications from new members to join PROGRAMMING. He has also developed a welcome kit for new members, helping them to become quickly acquainted with PROGRAMMING and actively participate in ongoing activities.
His contribution greatly helps this Action to strengthen its effectiveness as it enters its final years of activity. But how has this experience benefitted Rui for his future professional endeavours? “On a personal level, this role gave me a front-row seat to the vastly different healthcare realities across Europe. It sharpened my understanding of the current bottlenecks we face, but more importantly, the massive opportunities we have to genuinely improve healthcare for older adults—which is my absolute passion. Coming from Portugal, where geriatric medicine is still an emerging field, having a seat at the table in such an elite, international community has been invaluable. It has given me the leadership skills, the global network, and the pure enthusiasm to help shape the future of our field.” he concludes.
How can COST Actions support young researchers and innovators? Read Rui Buzaco’s testimony and discover inspiring experiences from across the COST community: https://www.cost.eu/supporting-the-careers-of-young-researchers-and-innovators/
