​"You can't be selfish and withhold knowledge these days. With knowledge so widely available, especially on the Internet, anyone can have access and learn from the best journals.

This is why as a mentor, I believe in going beyond teaching (or the formal sharing of knowledge) and through my actions, hope to impart the right attitudes, behaviours, values and standards to the next generation.

For me, mentoring wasn't something that I actively sought for, as it comes naturally being a doctor. After all, if you had senior doctors who had taught you well, you would want to do the same for your juniors. And this ultimately benefits patients.

I have trained junior doctors and sonographers. Although the focus for each group differs – with sonographers zeroing in more on the practical aspect, and with doctors we focus on covering both theory and practical – the goal is the same: to fill in the gaps where the student may be lacking. Sometimes, I also train foreign doctors and it's gratifying to know that they're able to use the knowledge that they've been taught, and apply it back in their home country.

My advice to mentors: Don't do it expecting recognition and rewards (of course if you are recognised for your efforts, it is a bonus) but rather, be a mentor because you enjoy it and see it as a way of giving back."

Assoc Prof Ding Zee Pin
Senior Consultant, Department of Cardiology
National Heart Centre Singapore

Winner of the "Distinguished Mentor Award" at the SingHealth Excellence Awards 2017