The Transformative Power of Mentoring in Young People’s Lives
Mentoring is more than a kind gesture—it’s a life-changing relationship that helps young people overcome adversity, build resilience, and step into a future filled with purpose. At Teen Challenge Tasmania, our Connections Mentoring program has been quietly transforming lives, one match at a time.
For at-risk youth, the presence of a consistent, caring adult can be the difference between dropping out or graduating, between isolation or connection, and between surviving or truly thriving.
Why Mentoring Matters for At-Risk Youth
1. It Boosts Education Outcomes Mentored youth are more likely to attend school regularly, stay engaged, and perform better academically. According to research from The National Mentoring Partnership, students with mentors are 55% more likely to enroll in college. Mentoring provides not only academic encouragement but a stable figure who believes in their potential—sometimes for the first time.
Toby’s Story (Name changed)
At age 14, Toby had already been in multiple foster placements and struggled with both trauma and learning difficulties. When he joined our Arrowsmith Program, he also began meeting weekly with a mentor through Connections. That trusted relationship gave him a sense of stability and motivation. Over time, Toby began catching up in school, re-engaging socially, and even found a passion for hospitality. Today, he’s in a supported traineeship, working in a local cafe and dreaming of opening his own food van.
2. It Builds Social and Emotional Resilience
Mentoring provides a safe space for young people to process emotions, develop communication skills, and form healthy attachments. Studies have shown that mentored youth report lower rates of depression and increased self-esteem. At Connections Mentoring, many young people come from homes where trust has been broken—mentorship offers them a new model for positive relationships.
Jane’s Story (name changed)
Jane was referred to us due to bullying and self-isolation. She barely spoke and would avoid eye contact in her first meetings. But her mentor, patiently built rapport—meeting Jane where she was at. Over a year later, Jane put herself forward to be a Year Leader in her school, spoke clearly in front of her peers and completed interviews with school staff. She was successful and now supports other students in the school. Her confidence and wellbeing have soared—and so has her hope for the future.
3. It Impacts Future Outcomes
Mentoring has long-term ripple effects. Research from the University of Massachusetts shows mentored youth are more likely to be employed, earn higher incomes, and avoid involvement in the justice system, something that we have witnessed firsthand here in Launceston. A positive role model now can shape the trajectory of a young person’s entire life.
Mentoring Also Changes the Mentor
While the impact on youth is clear, mentors also benefit profoundly from the experience.
Personal Growth: Many mentors describe gaining a deeper sense of purpose, improved listening and leadership skills, and a more compassionate outlook.
Connection: In an increasingly disconnected world, mentoring provides an avenue to build genuine relationships and give back to the community.
Joy: Witnessing the transformation of a young person is one of the most rewarding experiences life can offer.
“I thought I was volunteering to help someone—but I didn’t realise how much I’d grow too.” – Connections Mentor
But I’m Not Sure I Can Mentor…
Let’s tackle some common concerns:
“I don’t have enough time.”
Most mentors meet with their mentee for just 1 hour a week. That small window can have an outsized impact.
“I’m not trained for this.”
We don’t expect you to have all the answers. Connections provides training, resources, and ongoing support so you feel equipped.
“What if I say the wrong thing?”
Mentoring is more about listening than giving advice. Your presence, not your perfection, is what matters most.
Be the Difference. Become a Mentor.
The need has never been greater. Across Tasmania, young people are facing unprecedented levels of stress, anxiety, and social disconnection. But your time, encouragement, and consistency could be the turning point in a young person’s story.
Connections Mentoring is a structured, evidence-based program that matches young people aged 8–17 with caring adults who want to make a difference. Whether you’re a professional, retiree, student or someone who simply cares—there’s a place for you.
Visit www.teenchallengetasmania.org to find out more and register your interest.
Together, we can change the story—for them and for you.
Because every young person deserves someone in their corner.
Because hope begins with connection.