Navigating life’s challenges AnglicareSA’s Mentoring Program has a significant impact on the lives of young people in care, providing crucial support and guidance as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions.
Belinda works two nights a week as a mentor to two separate girls, one aged 11 and the other 13, developing a one-on-one connection to foster skills development, build confidence, and offer a consistent presence for those who may have busy family lives. “Life doesn’t come with a roadmap, and having someone to walk alongside young people can make a significant difference, whether it’s celebrating successes or navigating difficult times,” she said. “When I look back at all the people I had in my life who provided support – whether that be coaches, teachers, family, or friends – that happened quite naturally for me. “I don’t think everybody has the luxury of having people around them organically, and I think a mentor provides that. “It’s about providing support to someone and walking alongside them so that they can fulfil all of the excitement and experience all those things in a really supported and structured manner.”
Inspired by the positive mentors in her own life, community mentor Belinda, co-founder of Tredwell Management – a consultancy specialising in delivering sport, recreation, and open space solutions – said she was looking for an opportunity to give back. “I’ve always been someone to look at things that have happened throughout my life and the positive aspects,” Belinda said. “I’ve got to a certain point with my own children finishing school and thought that I’d had some good mentors over the years, which I really valued.” AnglicareSA’s Mentoring Program matches community mentors with a young person in care to support them in developing life skills and achieving specific goals. The mentor role involves spending three hours a week with a young person, creating activity plans, organising and facilitating activity sessions, and providing case notes.
“Life doesn’t come with a roadmap, and having someone to walk alongside young people can make a significant difference.”
Belinda Tredwell is a community mentor to two young girls in care
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