Mentoring Matters

Mentorship is at the heart of what we do because we know that engaged, confident girls (and boys) are the most effective agents for long-term change in Southern Africa. Afterall, 60 percent of Africans are younger than 25. The potential for strengthening communities is huge.

We also know sustainable change happens only when we partner with dynamic, passionate local leaders who guide young people with support, compassion, ingenuity and wide-ranging new experiences. We partner with these Mentors in Zambia, Madagascar and Zimbabwe, believing they know what’s best for their communities and trusting their commitment.

While many individual and community challenges are similar, each Mentor’s approach to address them varies somewhat. Here’s a glimpse into some of the Mentor’s recent activities and efforts.

“What an exciting morning we had as we visited the National Art Gallery. Afterward, we read through the guidelines for the Creative Expressions Contest. The girls are excited to have an opportunity to explore their creativity.”

— Mentor Sunga Mwila, Wayi Wayi Creatives Girls Club, Livingstone, Zambia

“We encouraged each other to speak up if faced with challenges so as to get support.”

— Mentor Procedure Chikosi, Girls Time, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

“Responsibility and commitment are key fundamentals in our programs. Our boys spend their time and effort taking care of the garden. It is a good time for the boys to engage in discussion as they work.”

— Mentor Ndlelende Nera KaNcube, Tikobane Boys Club, Dete, Zimbabwe

“Today I had a home visit with a club member. She had missed school for a week and club meetings twice. When I got there, I found her home alone (as) her mother had gone farming. After a long chat, she opened up to me about her problems and was now much better. She said she will be at school on Monday.”

— Mentor Pestrida Muleya, Isepe Girls Club, Mwandi, Zambia

“The boys’ topic for yesterday was goal setting. The discussion was centered around using the S.M.A.R.T approach towards goal setting. The boys were given homework to come up with one group goal that they would like to achieve as a club this quarter.”

— Mentor Kangwa Yombwe, Wayi Wayi Boys Club, Livingstone, Zambia

“Today we held a lesson on hygiene with the girls. They demonstrated how to use a variety of personal items. Emphasis was made by club Mentors on tips for good hygiene and how it helps us maintain good health.”

— Mentor Mutinta Mulaye, Mugurameno Girls Club, Mfuwe, Zambia

“We will hold sessions on self-esteem under the subtopic, ‘Aggressive, assertive and passive behaviors.”

— Mentor Prisca Sakala, Yosefe and Matula Girls Club, Mfuwe, Zambia