BACKGROUND Communities of practice foster knowledge sharing, scholarly collaboration, mentoring and professional identify formation. Easier access to technology overall and the desire to engage with peers during the pandemic have increased opportunities to engage in virtual global conversations. APPROACH The Brigham Education Institute designed and implemented a series of six bimonthly, 1-hour 'Global Medical Education Cafés' between September 2020 and June 2021. They were offered on the Zoom platform and featured a core educational topic led by one or two discussants, followed by small group interactions surrounding specific questions or challenges. Discussants were selected based on their international reputation and recognition as health professions education scholars and leaders with expertise in specific areas. Each café was advertised through newsletters, social media, educational email lists and open to educators from any healthcare discipline or geographical region. EVALUATION Between 26 and 41 participants attended each session from 12 countries representing five continents. Content analysis of preliminary education evaluation data from chats and reflective narratives identified four key themes: (1) exciting interactive format; (2) sense of worldwide community; (3) safe space for conversations; and (4) strong moderators facilitating engaging peer conversations. IMPLICATIONS The series leaders aimed to emphasise inclusive, non-hierarchical and cross-cultural conversations. Preliminary evaluation suggests that this goal was achieved; these will remain priorities in future series. Educators worldwide can organise similar events with minimal resources. A safe space for conversations and open-mindedness to learning from a variety of learning and societal cultures are likely essential elements for success.
Global Med Ed Café: A safe space for conversations.