Opportunity: My Education (with Ealing Council)

My role consists of providing advice, support and guidance for young people in need and helping them to achieve their life goals. Young people in care are often in a disadvantaged position, especially when it comes to education. Statistically, young people who have been in care are 50% less likely to attend university. This phenomenon can often be connected to a lack of confidence and low self-esteem as well lack of support from family, (young people in care often have no contact with family or limited connection, however, each case is different). As a care-leaver myself, I can relate to the young people that I mentor. Since all the mentors in this project are care leavers, it is easier for the mentees to connect with us as we’ve had similar experiences.   The most important thing that I have learned from this project is that young people are full of potential and have a variety of talents. However, they often feel unable to express themselves due to their experiences and environment. Helping them become more confident and seeing them develop is an enriching experience.  Working with traumatised children can often be challenging. However, mentors receive training sessions to help them meet these challenges. Mentors are not counsellors, we are a friendly ear available for young people. Helping others makes me feel better about myself and also helps me develop my confidence and communication skills. However, the most crucial quality of a mentor, in my opinion, is active listening.