As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to limit in-person gatherings and conferences worldwide, national and international neurosurgical societies have adapted to a changing academic environment by embracing web-based educational, promotional and social communities. The Young Neurosurgeon’s Committee (YNC), under chairman Dr. Jeremiah Johnson, has similarly embraced this transition. To reach their audience, the YNC has added an Instagram account (@Youngneuros) to their existing Twitter account (@Youngneuros) to bolster their social media presence.

Capitalizing on the importance of an online presence, the YNC has started a recurring webinar targeting students, residents and neurosurgeons in the beginning of their careers. These webinars have achieved significant success with their coverage of a range of topics focused on becoming a neurosurgeon and featured a number of prominent renowned neurosurgeons. Given the ease of the medium and the ability to reach and target interested students globally, the YNC is also launching a companion broadcast in concert with the Medical Student Training Camps group titled, Neurosurgical Journey.

Notably, the YNC has launched the Chris Philips Honor your Mentor Fund in honor of the recently retired pillar of the YNC. This fundraising initiative is aiming to raise $50k within five years with the mission of advancing medical student mentorship, research, education and participation in organized neurosurgery, particularly for students who would otherwise lack access. You can read more about the fund and find the link to donate here: https://www.nref.org/ways-to-give/Honor-Your-Mentor-Funds/YNC-Chris-Philips-Fund.