The GI-MAP mentorship program was created to address a common and persistent gap in early gastroenterology training across Canada: equitable access to mentorship.

Developed by Adedamola (Dammy) Bello, with the support of Steven Gruchy, VP, Education Affairs, GI-MAP connects internal medicine and pediatric residents with fellows and senior trainees through structured, near-peer guidance at a critical stage in their career development.

Mentorship Connects the Next Generation of GI Professionals

“GI-MAP is my response to a national gap in mentorship for those in early GI training,” says Dammy Bello. “I kept meeting exceptionally motivated residents who were drawn to gastroenterology but couldn’t reliably access mentorship — especially outside major academic centres.”

Many trainees interested in pursuing gastroenterology face uncertainty around which electives matter, how to build a strong CV, and where to find meaningful research opportunities.

The program is intentionally designed to be practical, flexible, and sustainable. Through structured one-to-one matches, GI-MAP provides clarity, accountability, and a trusted connection to help trainees move from uncertainty to a concrete plan. As Bello explains, “Mentorship is most powerful when it’s practical and relationship based. Trainees don’t just need encouragement — they need navigation.”

For mentors, GI-MAP offers a meaningful way to support the next generation of GI professionals without significant administrative burden. With a lean structure and clear expectations, mentors can develop their leadership skill by focusing on what matters most: sharing their experience and insight, offering guidance, and helping trainees build confidence.

At its core, GI-MAP is about building community and equity in access. “Mentorship shouldn’t depend on geography or who you happen to know,” says Bello.

When Dammy approached CAG leadership to support the program, there was strong alignment. As Steven Gruchy, VP of Education, noted, “It was clear that the program would fill an important gap in how CAG could help facilitate the career development of next generation of GI professionals — providing mentees with guidance at a formative stage in their early GI training, while offering mentors a valuable opportunity to develop their leadership skills.”

By fostering connections nationally, GI-MAP is helping ensure that trainees across Canada feel supported, prepared, and part of the GI community as they pursue a future in gastroenterology.

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