The support and guidance of a mentor can transform a young person’s life – but don’t just take our word for it. To mark National Mentoring Day, we’re looking at the impact that mentoring has on young people, and why our network of dedicated volunteers chooses to work with young people on the Career Ready programme.
For many young people, finding the right life path for them can be one of the hardest, and scariest, things they have to do. The world of work can be daunting, intimidating, and inaccessible for a lot of young people, especially those who come from underrepresented backgrounds – but a mentor can change that.
Having someone on your side to listen to, guide and motivate you in the first steps of your career has the power to change the whole trajectory of your life, which is why mentoring is such a central part of our programme. Career Ready prepares young people for the world of work – and a huge part of that preparation comes from the support of a mentor.
This mutually beneficial relationship equips young people with the self-belief they need to forge their own path and gives mentors the chance to give back and boost their wellbeing. So, to celebrate the power of mentoring, here are some of our favourite reflections from young people on the impact of a mentor, and the volunteers that champion them.
What our young people think
Our mentors connect with young people at a crucial point in their lives – and their advice helps and inspires them in so many ways. Here’s what our young people and alumni value about their mentoring relationships.
For many, their mentor empowers young people to challenge themselves and shape their own futures.
“My mentor, Tasmyn, has been a blessing. We formed a relationship of trust, and she has supported me every step of the way. Thanks to her, I feel much more confident in myself – I know who I am as a person and I’m fearless about my future.” Amy, Glasgow
“One of the benefits of having a mentor was having someone to discuss my future with – I left every meeting feeling motivated to act on what we’d discussed. The confidence I gained led me to apply to solicitor apprenticeship programmes.” Cai, Cardiff
Guidance from a mentor also prepares young people for the workplace and gives them the skills they need progress in their careers for years to come.
“My mentor has taught me so much about the world of work, and not just how to operate in it, but thrive in it.” Sara, London
And for others, it’s a relationship that continues to support them throughout their lives, both professionally and personally.
“10 years after finishing the programme, my mentor Louise is someone I consider to be a lifelong friend. She encouraged me, motivated me and supported me throughout my Career Ready journey.“ Ibinabo, Glasgow
Why our mentors get involved
From feeling like they’re making a difference to upskilling themselves, here’s why some of our volunteers choose to give an hour a month to a young person on the Career Ready programme.
Lots of our volunteers are passionate about helping others, and being a mentor gives them the chance to do just that alongside their day job.
“It is my sincere belief, that life is about what we can do to help others and social change is something which I am personally very passionate about. I think mentoring gives young people a constant unwavering source of support at a time in their lives where there is lots of change, and it helps them to navigate their career journeys and fulfil their potential. Everyone needs at least one person who believes in them.” Abi Nawrot, Speakeasy Productions Ltd
“Being a mentor is so fulfilling and rewarding. It’s a chance for you to make an impact on someone’s life at a pivotal point in their development. I could not recommend it enough.” Paul Baum, Mitie
Others reflect on the impact that a mentor had on them and want to pay those experiences forward to the next generation.
“When I was 14 years old, I was very lucky to meet someone who went on to become my mentor. Her name was Marion, and she transformed my life by showing me that I could choose a future for myself that I had not imagined was open to me. I wanted to pay the gift that Marion gave to me forwards by mentoring a young person myself.” Laura Flynn, mentor and careers coach
And for some, being a mentor helps them keep up with the times!
“If you’re considering what to do next – do you volunteer or not – give it a go. I can say that it’s helped me personally and professionally to develop in a short space of time. What you pick up from the students is amazing – even if it is the latest words and vocabulary!” Matt Cordas, St. James’ Place, Bristol
Mentoring at Career Ready
You can change a young person’s life with just an hour a month – your support will inspire your mentee to dream bigger, believe in themselves and build a rewarding future.
“Give volunteering a go, because it could really help a young person flourish. And remember, you’ve got more to offer than you might think.” Madalyn Matthews, Career Ready alumna and current mentor.
