Nike e-Mentorship Programme

I am a 24-year-old Congolese born living in South Africa under refugee status.

“I was in dire need of guidance mentorship in order to take my thinking abilities up a level and grow emotionally and professionally… I’ve had to overcome the fear of opening up about my struggles and challenges. I’ve also had to let go my inability to effectively communicate my feelings in an attempt to not seem weak to others… What surpised me at first was the mentor’s willingness to provide their time and knowledge for free, what has surprised me about the experience is the development that goes on. I am definitely more emotionally intelligent.”

I am a martial arts practitioner and instructor at Judo for Peace South Africa, with plans of making a breakthrough in the music industry.

“Exhilarating” – “Things happened so fast that I felt like I had known my mentor for a decent amount of years, by the second month I had already met one of the managers of one of my favourite singers and couldn’t believe that we were already deep into my goals and close to making them a reality. Adjusting my approach towards life and my goals had never felt so easy because my mentor made efforts to teach me branding and the ropes of how to present myself like a professional… The mentorship really was the last push I needed in order to push myself to the limits and I honestly see the drastic change and growth mentally, emotionally and goal wise.”

I am 18 years old. I live in Soweto – I grew up there with my 3 other siblings and my mother a single parent of 4 children – with no source of income other than the social grant. I finished matric last year.

“I have an amazing mentor who is really patient with me, and does believe in me... that pushes me to good. And her focusing on the positive side of me. It really amazes me that I’m having a mentor that really cares and hopes for the better.”

I live in Johannesburg South Africa and I’m originally from the DRC. I am a judoka and I also coach judo. I believe both the mind and body has to stay healthy.

“Awesome” – “The journey with my mentor was really superb, he really helped me understand a lot of things I did not understand before, my vision has been impacted… writing down your plans and goals are very important as it helps you filter which is achievable and which is immediately achievable.”

I’m passionate about sports that promote social cohesion between local citizens and foreign nationals. I’m a mom, psychology student, lay counsellor, judo coach, SAYes mentee and a globetrotter.

“Extraordinary” – “My biggest thing, since the start of the programme was finding someone that can resonate with me, someone with empathy and someone that can make me feel understood and heard, while having boundaries and respect… Her way of doing things with me and guiding me makes me realise that I had been needing someone like her to help me make effective use of my brain.”

I am 20 years old and non-binary. I love reading and skateboarding. In 5 years I’d like to have won the lottery so I can be a millionaire. If that doesn’t happen (very unlikely) then I’d like to be an English teacher who skateboards with their students.

“Amplifying” - “Last year I went into a course I had no passion for. After following the phases of this mentorship programme I’ve become more in tune with my passions and have since decided to follow through with them…it offers you skills that you need but haven’t been formally introduced to in normal learning systems.”

I am 21, a poet, writer, podcaster and director. I am an art fanatic and love conversations I can learn from.

“Life-changing” – “I feared that my mentor might change her mind or find that she didn’t like me. Within 2 sessions I’d already seen that she cares and that allowed me to open up about how I feel and the goals I had, what’s happening in my life and the people in my life which helped us move smoothly throughout the programme.” “The way she believes in me and the way she pushes me is out of this world. She gave me so much support and I am where I am in my career because of her”. “I’ve learnt to be kinder because now I know how much that can change someone’s life.”

SAYes was founded with the intention of improving life outcomes for young people through mentorship. What started as a trip to South Africa to coach football in 2005, led to a sponsored tour to the UK for a group of care experienced young South Africans (who got to meet Nelson Mandela), which then led to the curiosity and compassion behind an award winning dissertation (comparing support for care experienced young people in the UK and South Africa in 2007), which then led to the founding of SAYes Mentoring in Cape Town, South Africa (and a move to South Africa for our founder Michelle Potter in 2008). Now, some 15 years later, we see the arrival of SAYes Mentoring in the UK. As active citizens, communities, businesses, and governments have increasingly prioritised meaningful human connection, and authentically inclusive societies, mentorship has found its resonance. We are especially grateful to a single social investor, whose belief in SAYes has allowed us to move with this tide.

Since 2010, the mental health of youth has seriously declined, especially among young women. A recent 64-country ranking of mental health finds that the UK has the lowest average mental health score and the second highest proportion of people distressed or struggling (more than a third). While youth unemployment rates are low in the UK, these estimates are complicated by a sudden rise in economically inactive people (i.e. those not seeking work) due to poor health (2.5 million) as well as worker discouragement. Likewise, while extreme poverty in the UK (by global standards) is at less than 1 percent, by National Poverty Lines just over 20% of the country lives in relative poverty, including just over 30% of the UK’s children. The trend (for almost all groups) appears to be negative, with levels now approaching the peaks of the 1990s. In education, there are recent drops in number of 18 to 24-year-olds in full time education, and the disadvantage attainment gap continues to grow, and to vary substantially by ethnic status. Social poverty and social inequality (in addition to material inequality) may explain these effects. Indeed, inequality in the UK relative to other developed economies is high and correlates, as it does in developing countries, with a higher proportion of health and social problems both within (by region) and across countries. Far too many young people around the world do not have access to positive adult relationships focused on improving their life chances. As each generation prepares the soil for the next, this is a clear call to action. We know that mentorship can profoundly change life outcomes for young people in South Africa and in the UK - indeed everywhere where humans seek out one another to flourish.

July 2023 will see the completion of our rolling UK pilot programme and the evaluation of the impact of mentorship for several different groups of young people throughout the UK. Early results, for both mentors and mentees, are very promising. As is the vision and dedication of government, local authorities, and youth organisations that we are working with. Impact ratings and comments from graduating UK based mentees are included in the outcomes section on page 20. Although a small number thus far, all assessments are consistent with positive findings seen in other SAYes Programmes. We look forward to sharing more.

“When I was joining the programme, I really didn’t know what to expect - I was just craving to do something meaningful, something that I would consider important. It turned out to be an unforgettable experience. A whole beautiful journey of building a connection with someone who is not my family member, or my friend, or my colleague - basically a complete stranger at first. No agenda as such. Just exploring someone else’s world and their ideas, being present, being supportive. At the same time, being welcomed to share my own thoughts and stories - always keeping in mind that whatever I’m saying, it’s best if it adds value and contributes to the connection between us two. In the world of meaningless content and shallow chats just for the sake of having a chat, I found our meetings really soul-nourishing - because they always had a meaning. Even if it was about something small. Even if we just talked about what it’s like to have a puppy. Especially when we talked about a puppy! This safe space full of meaning is what I’ve already started missing a lot. And it’s only been a week or so! But also, I just got really lucky because my mentee is the most incredible powerhouse of a person.” – (Mentor, UK Programmes)

What year/s were you in the SAYes programme? Started in 2022.

How did you hear about SAYes? I heard through my social worker.

What attracted you to SAYes? What made you sign up? The reason why I signed up for SAYes was because I was moving out of a Children’s Home and towards independent living. I needed additional mentoring, guidance, and support.

What were you hoping to get out of the programme? Youth empowerment; to learn new skills; opportunities; and support .

Tell us about the positives of the programme. SAYes is amazing in so many ways. For example, when my mentor Fleur, my Transition Specialist and I come up with a plan to solve any issues that I might have. My mentor is a great listener and gives advice whenever she can. And the Transition Specialist is always trying her best to see what SAYes can do to assist me. The mentoring programme with its support system is amazing. It is both motivational and inspirational. Tell us about a story that meant a lot to you. My story, honestly speaking, is that I have come so far. It makes me so proud to see what I’ve achieved and where I’m heading. It is amazing to watch my growth and this is my greatest inspiration.

What are the top three things that you learnt from the programme? Generosity. Patience . Honesty

Do you have a message for a new mentor/mentee? You have what it takes to achieve your goals.

What year/s were you in the SAYes programme? I have been in the programme since summer 2020 and am currently mentoring my third mentee.

How did you hear about SAYes?

Via Gillian Anderson, whom I have been following and have been a fan of for a long time.

What attracted you to SAYes?

What made you sign up?

The possibility to join from my home (in The Netherlands) and to mentor online presented itself at a time where I felt I had the time and ability to commit.

What concerns (if any) did you have when thinking about signing up? Even though I was unsure if I had anything to add, or had enough knowledge/ connections, I decided to trust the process. What I learned since then is that everyone brings a unique package of experiences to the SAYes programme. And if you need it there is always brilliant support - for example, SAYes’s Transition

Specialist has been instrumental in all the work with Monique, my amazing mentee.

What were you hoping to get out of the SAYes programme? Mostly an opportunity to be involved with the incredible work, to try and do something useful with my spare time that I felt would have a positive impact. I had been aware of and following SAYes for a while.

Tell us about the positives of the programme. There are so many. The clear and extensive interview; in-depth training before you being mentoring; the amazing support system; the resources; and of course, the mentors, mentees and their stories.

Anything else you would like to tell us? I feel grateful to be asked to write this and I’d like to take this opportunity to shine a light on our wonderful Transition Specialist, who has been an incredible source of advocacy and support to the both of us. And Monique, who makes mentoring so much fun and a very easy, gratifying experience, no matter what we talk about.

Tell us about a story that meant a lot to you.The stories of resilience, hope and willpower that my SAYes mentees have shared with me are honestly the most awe-inspiring and humbling experience that I could have. As someone who is from a completely different culture, I can only imagine what it takes to do what all these unique girls and women are doing. Their stories are ones I will treasure.

What are the top three things that you learned from the programme? Humility and perspective: Opening the program globally gives the partnership between mentor and mentee unique opportunities to learn from each other. It empowers participants with experiences and insights they ordinarily might not have. It is humbling and awe inspiring.

Gratitude: The simple fact that someone is willing to show up to the conversation we are inviting them to. They are willing to take a leap into the unknown with just the promise of consistency, advocacy and support. All this without really knowing anything about their new mentor, is incredible. Every time my mentee answers my call, I am so grateful to have her trust.

The power of listening: At the start of my part in the programme I was very worried (and sometimes still am) that I would not be able to ‘do enough’. However, my mentors and mentees have taught me that sometimes, just the presence of a kind, listening and unjudgmental ear can be enough to provide some relief.

Do you have a message for a new mentor? Consistency is the main thing you can offer. Plan for it and uphold it as much as you can but do not be discouraged when a mentee cannot commit to the same. It is a process, a journey, and sometimes the goal is simply to get to weekly meetings. That too is okay because it is still progress.

How did you hear about SAYes?

Through my employer, Inver Re. They partnered with SAYes in 2022 and asked for volunteers.

What attracted you to SAYes/what made you sign up? I was unaware of the challenges that care leavers face until SAYes reached out for volunteers and was saddened to hear just some of the difficulties they can face. I was so impressed with the work that the charity does in this very unpublicised sector of need and signed up because I wanted to help in a practical way. The charity offers great training and support to the mentors which I felt was very important ensure the best outcome for the mentees.

What concerns (if any) did you have about signing up? The level of responsibility was a concern. That was driven by doubts as to whether I would be effective in the role of mentor, but the training provided by SAYes gave me confidence. I was also concerned that my mentee would not like me and therefore find it difficult to interact, but the matching process is so well managed by the SAYes team, I need not have worried.

What are you hoping to get out of the SAYes programme?

The satisfaction that I am doing something positive to hopefully help young people who have had such a tough start in life achieve their goals. Also, personal development in doing something new which was outside my comfort zone.

Anything else you would like to tell us? I was matched with my mentee back in November and I would like to think that since then we have developed a mutual trust and respect. Personally, I feel grateful for that and hopefully my mentee feels the same! I feel it helps with the effectiveness of our weekly meetings.

Tell us about a story that meant a lot to you (not necessarily SAYes related). I heard a story about a past-mentee under the SAYes program, who arranged a Christmas Day lunch last year for over 60 care leavers and their dependents in their local area. In addition, that person managed to get support from others to put together small gifts for those attending. Many of the attendees would have spent Christmas entirely their own had that person not had the initiative, confidence, and kindness to put it together.

What are the top thress things that you learned from the programme?

• In the limited time I have been doing this, I have learned the importance of listening in the mentoring process. There are times when your mentee will just want to talk without an agenda which can be of huge benefit if they have nobody else to speak to. It is not just about giving advice and guidance which was one of my initial expectations.

• Your mentee may have a different set of life skills borne out of a start in life totally different from you own, but that does not mean you cannot learn from them. I have certainly been inspired by my mentee’s attitude to achieving set goals.

• At first, I thought the discussion in each session would have to be structured to take in the various areas in the Transition Plan such as Education & Learning, Mental Health etc., but I quickly realised that made for a very formal approach. It found it easier and more productive to identify certain areas to dive into as each session progressed without pressuring yourself and your mentee to address each sector.

What message would you give new/potential mentors? You can make a positive difference to a young person’s life by just giving one hour of your time each week. Sessions are online so you can arrange them at a time convenient to you and your mentee. As mentioned above, the training and support given by the SAYes team is amazing – they are there for you throughout the entire process and on hand if you have any worries or concerns. I never thought I would become a mentor, but I am so pleased I challenged myself and took on the role. An hour a week of your time is a small contribution to a great cause.

How did you hear about SAYes?

Care Leavers Covenant Website

What attracted you to SAYes? What made you sign up?

I needed some support in my life. I am care-experienced and had so much going on. I felt alone and isolated, and like I had nobody to talk to. I was at a low stage in my life.

What were you hoping to get out of the programme?

I am hoping to learn how to set realistic goals for myself and work towards building a future that is better for me. I also want someone I can speak to each week, as I do not currently have that support at home with family.

Anything else you would like to tell us?

I think mentoring is great for young people, they have someone to talk to and build their goals with.

Tell us about a story that meant a lot to you (not necessarily SAYes related). Having support from SAYes at a time where I had been through a rough break up; was living alone; and feeling super isolated - I felt so supported. The first week I contacted them they were fast at getting in touch. I had a mentor within two weeks. My mental health was not great and I was at an extremely low point in my life. Having someone to talk to every week, whilst I was feeling lost and super lonely, helped me build my life back up. I am now happy in the choices that I am making and am feeling more supported.

What are the top three things that you learnt from the programme?

How to talk more to the people around me. Goal setting can be easy if you think of it as a stepby-step process. If you put work into taking care of yourself, then your mental health can improve.

What message would you give new/potential mentees?

Go for it, you only get one life. If you do not feel like you have anyone to talk to, SAYes is for you. They are committed and will not let you down. It has been the best experience for me and I hope other young people get to experience that too.

Introduction

Our Vision & Mission

At SAYes our vision is to become the world’s leading provider of youth mentoring, accelerating an end to social poverty and inequality.

Our mission is to design, deliver and support high-quality youth mentorship programmes, that measurably and sustainably improve life outcomes for young people, and contribute to a world of inspired and informed leaders of social change.

Method

Our Model

SAYes has developed a comprehensive, integrated and systematic model of mentoring and transition planning, designed to improve the quality and consistency of relational support, and therefore the motivational impact of intervention content available to young people. This approach is characterised by skilled mentoring techniques, structured and professionally supported transition planning, and actionable intervention tools, tactics and strategies. High-value relationships are especially motivating for young people living under conditions of social poverty and inequality, impacting their decision making and behaviour, and improving life outcomes, for all us, far into the future.

Our Programmes

SAYes works with independent volunteers and business teams internationally. We provide high-impact Mentorship Programmes designed to improve life outcomes for children and young adults (16 – 32 years of age) affected by social poverty and inequality. We currently serve mentees in South Africa and the UK and continue to extend our support internationally. All SAYes Mentorship Programmes carefully select, screen and train mentors, and inclusively recruit, train and onboard mentees. Mentors and mentees are matched and contracted for a full cycle (7-9 months) of weekly (1-hour) one-to-one mentoring sessions. Each match is assigned a SAYes Transition Specialist, providing professional and personalised monitoring and support from contracting through to graduation. Throughout our programmes matches have access to regular expert-led group classes and intervention content, built for and with young people, and targeting key life domains. After their graduation, alumni support is available to both mentors and mentees, and where possible mentees are offered a new mentor and another programme cycle to continue expanding and enriching perspective, social capital and social security.

Our Objectives & Outputs

Consistent with the principle of effectiveness, we predict the impact of each SAYes Programme in an Objectives and Outputs statement drafted prior to programme commencement. This includes defined objectives, outputs and evaluation metrics. In terms of objectives common to all programmes:

• With mentees, we seek to improve their life outcomes (including impact on independence and well-being domains) and life chances (including changes in perspective, social capital and social security, and changes in the quality of decision-making and consistency of healthy practices)

• With mentors we seek to improve their approach to social change and community engagement; their personal and professional development; their knowledge and skills of mentoring and transition planning; and their perception of impact (i.e., sustainable efficacy)

• With business partners we seek to improve the quality and reach of their social and community impact initiatives, staff engagement with diversity, equality and inclusivity (including awareness and sensitivity to social change objectives), employee engagement (including access to adjacent personal and professional growth opportunities), and knowledge and skills of inclusive leadership

• Additional impact assessments (for mentors, mentees and partners) are introduced for SAYes Programmes that deliver targeted group level programme interventions and/or entail additional partner objectives (e.g., improve transferrable skills, employability, pro-social behaviour, school attendance, violence reduction, reduced recidivism)

Our Monitoring & Evaluation

SAYes monitors programme rollout extensively, gathering weekly data on mentoring sessions, contact hours and challenges. We report quantitatively on this data at 3-month intervals, and provide additional qualitative analysis of meeting challenges and transition planning content by life domain. We monitor group session attendance (i.e., workgroups, masterclasses and support groups) and request subjective ratings and reviews for all of these sessions (as well as for interview, training and matching sessions). For all programmes we measure and report on the perceived quality of the social change experience with SAYes. Where applicable we also request programme ratings and reviews from participating partner organisations (i.e., referring partners and/or associated third parties).

For evaluations, SAYes Programmes are all assessed internally, including a consolidated quantitative and qualitative impact report designed to inform the iteration of each programme cycle. Measures include survey based self-report rating scales, open-ended questions, and behavioural reports on community level indicators. Third-party ratings and reports (e.g., from relevant stakeholders such as teachers, managers, colleagues) as well as psychometric test scores (including pre and post evaluations) are available for programmes delivering group level intervention content. We additionally seek out and engage external evaluation partners, including academic institutions and specialist youth units, to ensure our work is rigorously assessed and available to the wider community of youth mentoring organisations.

Mentee Impact (2022)

This impact report considers SAYes Programmes as gauged by a subset of young people who participated as mentees in 2022. Specifically, we report on mentees graduating or active after the middle of May 2022 (see Outcomes 2021 for mentees graduating before this date). Of the 91 mentees in this cohort (out of 137 matches supported at any point in 2022), 71 (78%) have graduated, 7 (8%) had an early closure, and 13 (14%) have yet to graduate (i.e., will graduate in the second quarter of 2023). Across all programmes:

• 69 (75%) mentees had matches initiated in 2022

• 36 (40%) mentees were care experienced

• 68% of mentees were female, 30% male, 2% non-binary

• 49 (54%) mentees were matched through business and NPO partnerships (71% of new matches)

•

16 (18%) mentees were based in the UK

For the current report we surveyed 65 of the 71 graduating mentees. Surveys were carried out by Transition Specialists and occurred at least one week after match graduation via voice or video call. In some cases, mentees (and all mentors) completed surveys themselves via an electronic survey link. In this report we aggregate feedback from across SAYes Programmes, including Business Partner Programmes (two Programmes), NPO Partner Programmes (one Programme), the UK Pilot Programme (with various groups of young people including but not limited to those with care experience), SA Care Experienced Programmes (including three SA based Children’s Homes Programmes and a SA-based ‘care leaver’ Programme), and Independent Programmes (including alumni who have graduated from Schools and CBO Programmes in years prior). Where possible we include analysis by specific programme.

Results (Quantitative)

Impact on life chances and life outcomes

100% of mentees said having a mentor positively affected their life (52% ‘life-changing’, 38% ‘much positive impact’ and 9% ‘some positive impact’) . This is a similar impact figure as reported in 2020 and 2021. When examining the reasons mentees gave for these ratings, we identify themes corresponding to the skills of mentorship trained at SAYes - specifically guidance (in building perspective), advocacy (in building social capital and affordances), and support (in building secure social bonds/social security). Qualitative examples of which are provided on page 23.

100% of mentees thought that having a mentor positively improved their choices related to independence (45% ‘life-changing’, 44% ‘much positive’, 11% ‘some positive’). Again, this is a near identical result to 2020 and 2021. Mentees work on transition plans organised by domain. When asked at the end of the programme cycle about impact, mentees thought the area where having a mentor most improved their independence was Work & Money (41%), followed by Education & Learning (36%) and Home & Family (13%). These have consistently been reported as the top

“Having a mentor gave me the opportunity to have someone who could help/guide me through the challenges of trying to be the best version of myself and at the perspective’s that I have on life.”

“My mentor helped me to see things in a different perspective and weigh out my options.”

“It allowed me to set goals and have someone to hold me accountable and motivate me throughout the process. My mentor has really changed the way I view achieving my goals.”

“I never had a plan set out for my goals. My mentor has been there to help and guide me. I got to know myself more.”

“I am more equipped now as to simplifying my goals and do something every day to reach them.”

“I had the chance to discuss my thoughts and feelings through with someone cool with an interesting perspective of life.”

“Supported everything I brought up. For example, applying for a degree which I figured that I loved. She made me figure out what I love doing and how I can make that my career.”

“It has helped me in different aspects of life and helped me grow in many ways. It has helped me in different aspects of life”

“I was able to see how much progress I’ve made in the past couple of months. It boosted my confidence and my experience with my mentor.” independence domains for several years although Work & Money is now the topped ranked domain (over Education & Learning). 5% of mentees selected Community & Citizenship, with the remaining 5% selecting Sport & Recreation as the biggest impact area in independence.

Within each independence domain mentees also rate the extent of impact. Ratings of more than

“This year has been a rollercoaster ride for me and I don’t think I would have got through it all if I didn’t have someone listening and guiding me along the way.”

“A lot happened! It actually helped me to better myself in a positive way.”

“I am now able to sleep early. I am more self-aware. I have gained a long-time friend.”

“I grew a lot emotionally, physically and mentally. I got a better understanding of who I am and what I want in life and I achieved a lot in this small period of time with my mentor.”

“I help me grow. I feel like she has helped me a lot and in lot of things.”

“You helped me during my difficult time of my life. I am really appreciating the opportunity to be part of this program and I have learned a lot.”

“I felt like I had support every day. And I mattersomeone who wants to listen to me.”

“My life changed since I started taking action and all the advice I got really impacted my friends also.”

“The mentors stuck to the plan, my mentor for example noted down my problems and try to help me as much as possible.”

“It helped me a lot just having someone to talk to. Even just talking about things cos I don’t have anyone to talk certain things with.”

95% positive impact were achieved for Work & Money (98% positive - 37% ‘Life changing’, 39% ‘Much positive’), Home & Family (97% positive40% ‘Life changing’, 39% ‘Much positive’) and Education & Learning (95% positive - 37% ‘Life changing’, 42% ‘Much positive’). Community and Citizenship received an 88% positive impact rating (29% ‘Life changing’) and Sport & Recreation received an 87% positive impact rating (33% ‘Life changing’). In the choice between ‘Some positive impact’ versus ‘much positive impact’ (to account for socially desirable responding) averages across all domains were consistently in favour of ‘Much positive impact’ and ‘Life changing’. We are confident mentee ratings reflect the impact of the mentoring as young people experience it, and pleased to report once again (for 2020, 2021, and 2022) exceptional impact ratings across all independence domains.

Mentees are also asked how their decision making improved with respect to independence, both in a ranking format and by noting examples of improved decision-making across each independence domain (see page 25). SAYes programming trains mentors to work on different stages of decision making with their mentees - raising consciousness, exploring options, getting a focused plan, and then adjusting and revising to feedback/set-backs.

Mentees felt the largest impact in their decisionmaking process was in focus (i.e., “Yes - I am a lot more focused now than before) at 100% impact, with 79% saying, “Yes - I am a lot more focused now than before”, with the remaining 21% saying, “Yes - I am a little more focused now than before”. The sense of deliberate and focused decision making (agency) in one’s life is an unmistakable sign of the impact of good mentoring, and is emphasised in the SAYes support role (an accessible, responsive, and emotional available approach combined with a balance of demand and responsiveness and clear boundaries). This is a consistently replicated finding from SAYes Programmes over many years and, we are pleased to report, over many different youth contexts (i.e., 100% impact across UK and SA Programmes, across care experienced mentees living in children’s homes and living independently, and across young sport for development coaches in different regions and at different organisations).

The second biggest impact in decision-making was in adjusting to feedback/setbacks (“When it comes to your independence do you feel you can cope with challenges/ setbacks/ changes now more than before?”), also achieving 100% impact ( 76% said, “Yes - a lot”, and 24% said, “Yes - a little”). By programme, while achieving a 100% positive impact rating for UK based mentees, a proportionally higher number of ‘yes – a little’ (67%) versus ‘yes - a lot’ (33%) ratings were reported by UK mentees. This finding is consistent with high levels of mental health distress and discouragement that has been reported in the UK (see The Mental State of the World Report, 2022). Nevertheless, in light of ongoing challenges due to the pandemic, as well as the economic and political disruption of 2022, and (in South Africa) significant infrastructure challenges (power failures), this is once again, a stunningly impressive impact due to mentoring. We believe role modelling of honest reality testing, working constructively with feedback, proactive problem solving and resilience/grit are at the core of this finding.

Ratings for improvements in consciousness (“I am more aware (and accepting) of factors affecting independence now than before”) were high - at 97% impact (83% saying, “Yes - a lot”, and 14% saying, “Yes - a little”). One interesting programme variation here was in our UK pilot – where 100% of mentees rated improvements in this aspect of decision making at the highest rating (and also did so for Focus). The value of improved self-awareness (and self-acceptance) in the context of making life changing decisions cannot be overstated – and is heavily indexed in the SAYes approach to guidance.

Finally, ratings for options explored (i.e., “I see more options and explore more options now than before”) were also high - at 96% impact (77% ‘yes - a lot’, 19% ‘yes - a little’). Expanding the base of options explored in various life domains is essential to creative mentoring, as is the core of

SAYes approach to advocacy (scaffolding and building affordances).

100% of mentees thought that having a mentor positively improved their practices related to well-being (43% ‘life-changing’, 46% ‘much positive impact’, 11% ‘some positive impact’). Mentees thought that the area where having a mentor most improved their well-being was Emotional Health (selected by 45% of mentees ), followed by Identity Health (22%) and Physical

“I can draw up and budget and use my money accordingly.”

“Even though I know that I’m losing my job. I’m so positive and I go internal interviews and do my best. Because I chose to be the best that I’m regardless.”

“Time management, now I know how to work upon time.”

“It was a major focus for me and we definitely worked on it a lot more and the guidance I got through my mentorship was quite a lot. I got good guidance, as well as advice and connections in the workplace.”

“I really learned about balancing school, work and family I have gained that skill.”

“I decided to go back to varsity and get my degree”

“I’ve learned how to read and got back to school.”

“I set a structure to my studies because of my mentor.”

“I have planned out a schedule on when and where I’m going to get my work done and how to manage stress and other overpowering emotions.”

“I gained a lot of perspective from my mentor as she gave me advice & tools I can use to make decisions for my academic future.”

Health (14%). Emotional and Identity health continue a multi-year trend as the top wellbeing related domains. We suspect this reflects the high incidence of mental health challenges which were and remain especially pressing for adolescence. A smaller, through still considerable number, chose Cognitive Health (13%) as the biggest area of impact, while fewer chose Social Health (6%). This last result (i.e., the lower proportional ranking of the social health impact rating) was seen first in 2021 and likely reflects

‘Choosing where to study, how do you handle difficult situations and people.”

“Decided to ask teacher when needing helpbeing more assertive.”

“I am able to make choices with regards to my further studies thanks to my mentors guide.”

“I can now deal with my exam stress and I have better marks then before.”

“I learnt to accept that winning and losing is part of life.”

“I started focusing on my fitness and diet as a result of having my mentor.”

“I’ve tried to use the love that I have for Sport to try to Coach young kids from my community to share my skills.”

“I learned how to prioritise and create a healthy work, family and me time balance, in addition to learning how to build meaningful relationships.”

“I’ve finally opened up about how I self-harm and that have helped”

“I really learned about balancing school, work and family I have gained that skill.”

“It taught to me use the resources I have been given & make use of the opportunity of having a mentor.”