Social justice mentoring in the borderlands of academia: developing a transnational mentoring network for mutual scholarly support

Purpose This research examines both the possibilities of establishing mutual learning and dialogue beyond the confines of academic discipline, rank and geographical location, and developing transnational mentoring networks (TMNs) from the experiences of three scholars of color from different academic traditions in three different parts of the world. Design/methodology/approach Utilizing cartas and pláticas as methods, we collaboratively created and analyzed our data through textual reflections on guided topics, reflections and conversations. Our approach yielded 12 cartas and over 12 h of discussion about our mentoring relationships. Findings Given the current state of mentorship in academia and our willingness to engage in solidarity, we sought dialogue and mentorship beyond the borders that confine our disciplines, ranks, geographical locations and epistemologies. Our epistemological foundations presented an opportunity for us to initiate a TMN from which we organically established an (un)anchored academic safe space from which lessons were drawn. Originality/value In an academic era of polarization, less collaboration, performativity and transactionality, our TMN highlights how an alternative space can overcome geopolitical and academic borders and foster solidarity through cosmopolitan dialogue and transnational mentoring.