I have been volunteering at The Forum for 3 weeks now, so have met many a cheerful mentor while sitting in the office. However, a week ago I started interviewing mentors for a research project I am doing at the University of Edinburgh. I have been asking questions about how the mentors first got involved with the project, the experiences they have had throughout the process, and why they think the project is important.My main finding… Wow, what a lovely bunch of people! Every interview made me more and more inspired to become a mentor and join the team myself. Everyone was so enthusiastic about the project and its achievements.
What really struck me in the interviews was how this project provides so much more than practical support to the mentees. This is clearly a vital aspect of the partnership, but stories of blossoming friendships, adventures around London, and a wide range of knowledge and experience gained by both mentees and mentors really showed the potential of mentoring relationships. The fact that the friendships made through the mentor system often continue beyond the 6 months of weekly meetings really shows how engaged both mentees and mentors are with the project.
The mentors each have their own unique experiences and knowledge which they are encouraged to contribute - be it knowledge as a solicitor or counsellor, or a love for history and exploring museums. I believe it is the combination of this passion and patience that makes the mentoring system so dynamic and successful. One mentor explained how rewarding it was to see her mentee grow in confidence over the 6 months: “When I hear those words [of thanks] from the people I am supporting and mentoring, that is not pleasure; it is something absolutely deeper - gratification - and goes to the heart.”- Vittoria
I would like to say a HUGE "thank you" to the mentors who have participated in my research: Ruth, Gemma, Vittoria and Alec (and possibly more in the future!). I really loved meeting you and have learnt so much from you all!
