The annual Young Investigators’ Meeting (YIM) brings together exceptional young and senior scientists, heads of institutions, and representatives from funding agencies for interactions focusing on science careers, mentoring, and networking. The YIM 2021 program featured illuminating talks by renowned scientists, networking sessions, and panel discussions that focus on a wide variety of topics, including mentorship, setting up a research group, navigating the post-COVID world, funding opportunities, and research assessment. Established scientists described their scientific journeys, sharing inspirational and amusing anecdotes about their experiences with younger scientists who are establishing their careers.