In spring 2022, Mind & Life launched a pilot mentoring program to support and grow the pool of Global Majority investigators in contemplative research, particularly those who attend the Mind & Life Summer Research Institute (SRI) and those who may seek funding from our grants. This program is based on Inclusive Contemplative Leadership and Mentorship, defined as mentorship which draws from the lineages and experiences of both the mentor and mentee. This type of mentorship broadens the scope and understanding of contemplative practice to contribute to ever-expanding diversity, equity and inclusiveness. An interdisciplinary working group developed the program in 2021 led by Dr. Kamilah Majied, and a successful pilot program was run in 2022.
In this thought-provoking blog, Dr. Kamilah Majied, Program Development Lead Consultant and inclusivity and equity consultant, reflects on her experiences with the program and shares her insights.
This program provides a unique opportunity to receive mentorship from experienced Global Majority investigators in contemplative research, and support to seek funding from Mind & Life grants.
During the year-long program, you will delve deeper into your own contemplative practice and strengthen your leadership skills, leading to a greater sense of personal agency, belonging, and community. The program focuses on developing academic and leadership strategies for aspiring and current global majority contemplative scholars, incorporating inclusivity and liberation pedagogy into its framework.
The program is a one-year commitment starting in May 2023 and includes support for participating in Mind & Life’s 2024 Summer Research Institute and guidance in applying for the Francisco JK. Varela Research Grant. For more information, email mentoring@mindandlife.org.
Participants in the 2023 program
Mentors:
- Doris F. Chang, New York University
- Cheryl Woods-Giscombe, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
- Mays Imad, Connecticut University
- Steven Oliver, Salem University
- Ram Mahalingham, University of Michigan
- Jeffrey Proulx, Brown University
Mentees:
- Maha Al-Suwaidi, University of California, Los Angeles
- Mansi Brat, Kean University
- Rui Machado, Federal University of Pampa
- Christa Mahlobo, University of Pennsylvania
- Felipe Mercado, California State University
- Edgardo Ramirez, University of California, Los Angeles
Leadership and Mentorship Program Working Group

Inger Burnett-Zeigler, PhD
Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University






Vaishali Mamgain, PhD
University of Southern Maine

Kedrick Perry, PhD
Loyola University

Juan Santoyo
Universidad de Antioquia; Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Grantee, Planning Committee Member, Reviewer