NextGen
European Wound Care Leaders Programme
About the initiative
The NextGen European Wound Care Leaders Programme is an initiative designed to foster a new generation of European leaders in wound care. By implementing the programme, EWMA aims to equip new talents in wound management with the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to drive innovation and excellence within EWMA and the broader healthcare community.
The programme focuses on identifying, nurturing, and preparing young professionals in wound care for future leadership roles. It promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, provides mentorship, and creates pathways to potential leadership positions within EWMA as well as health care organisations across Europe. Candidates for the programme are selected based on their passion for wound care, interdisciplinary mindset, leadership potential, and commitment to EWMA’s mission. The selection process also values diverse backgrounds to enrich the learning experience and promote inclusivity.
Programme
The two-year intensive programme will include a general series of activities for the members of the NextGen European Wound Care Leaders group, as well as individual mentorship and the possibility to add activities to individual programmes, depending on the relevance, funding needs and EWMA’s possibility to support these additional activities. Mentees will be asked to do a professional and leadership portfolio for mentors to track their progress. By the end of the programme, all members of the group will receive a certificate with a description of their individual programme and achievements during this.
The general programme will include:
- Minimum four meetings (online or face-to-face during the EWMA Conference for all members of the group and mentors, for general sharing of experiences and discussions)
- Individual meetings with a dedicated mentor (frequency subject to agreement between mentor and mentee).
- Participation in and presentation (if relevant) at the annual EWMA conference
- Participation in one of the masterclasses held in conjunction with the annual EWMA Conference.
Based on the individual needs of the mentee, the programme may also include additional activities such as:
- Education and professional development through specialised training sessions, workshops, and seminars.
- Participation in other wound care related conferences.
- A stay at a wound center meeting the specific training needs of the individual candidate.
Who should apply?
NextGen is aimed at early-career professionals in wound care who demonstrate motivation, leadership potential, and a clear vision for their future contribution to the field.
We are particularly interested in individuals who:
- Are in the early stages of their career (within 5 years after their highest degree)
- Show leadership potential and a willingness to motivate and engage others
- Are driven to create change and push boundaries within wound care
- Have a strong motivation aligned with EWMA’s mission
- Are actively engaged in professional or national wound care communities
We encourage individuals of all backgrounds, ethnicities, and genders to apply.
We are looking for:
- Passionate, early-career wound care professionals
- Individuals with a clear interest in a specific aspect of wound care
- Future leaders who want to drive change
- People motivated to go beyond their daily role
NextGen is closely aligned with the EWMA Young Wound Experts group. While membership of the group is not a formal eligibility requirement, applicants are strongly encouraged to engage with the EWMA Young Wound Experts as part of their professional development. Sign up here!
Apply to become a part of the programme
Applications for the 2026 programme are now open! The call opens at the EWMA 2026 Conference and the deadline for applications is 30 June 2026.
A committee constituted by representatives from the EWMA Council reviews all applications and selects the most promising candidates.
To be considered, applicants must submit one single combined PDF document containing:
- A motivation statement (maximum one A4 page)
- A CV in standard format
- Contact details (name and email) for 2–3 professional referees
Download the application form here!
Please note: To apply, you must be a current EWMA member and based in Europe.
How applications are assessed
Applications are reviewed using a structured screening and scoring process. Particular emphasis is placed on:
- Motivation and clarity of purpose
- Leadership potential
- Alignment with EWMA’s mission and values
- Engagement beyond routine professional duties
Publication record or seniority alone is not a determining factor.
You can see how we score your applications here.
What comes next?
Curious about what the process looks like after you apply? Below is a draft timeline for the 2026 programme cycle — from the opening of the call to your first in-person meeting as a selected mentee.
| Phase | Timing |
|---|---|
| Call opens | EWMA 2026 Conference (May) |
| Application deadline | 30 June 2026 |
| Eligibility screening & review | August |
| Interviews with shortlisted candidates | 17 September |
| Confirmation to selected mentees | September |
| Mentor–mentee matchmaking | October |
| Announcement of selected mentees | October |
| Introductory meeting (online) | January 2027 |
| First in-person meeting | March 2027 |
Submit your application!
Industry supporters
The EWMA NextGen Programme is kindly supported by the following companies:
