Elena B. Stavrevska Elena B. Stavrevska is a feminist scholar, peace studies researcher, and Professor of International Relations at the University of Bristol. Her research focuses on feminist and decolonial approaches to peace and peacebuilding, the political economy of peacebuilding processes, and the politics of knowledge production in relation to the post-Yugoslav space. Prior to joining Bristol, Elena held research and teaching positions at the London School of Economics and Political Science, the University of Notre Dame, Bard College Berlin, and Central European University. She holds a PhD in Political Science and International Relations and completed her Master’s studies in International Relations and European Studies at CEU. Elena is a co-founder of Stella and the YugoslaWomen+ collective. “Throughout my life, I have had mentors who have contributed to my development. Their support, trust, and knowledge helped me overcome various challenges, build my own career, and gain confidence. At the same time, mentorship is very important to me because it allows me to give back—as a mentor to students and colleagues in academia, as well as within Stella and in informal settings. In these roles, I have sought to pass on the support and inspiration that I myself received, to encourage critical thinking and self-confidence, and to create spaces where people feel valued and heard. For me, mentorship is a two-way process of learning and growth, grounded in trust and care.”