Laurence's Story
3-times Mentor and Chair of Trustees
Louisa's Story
Mentor and Service Staff Member
From Volunteer Mentor to Mentoring Service Support Officer.
Inspired by a desire to continue making a positive impact after leaving a role supporting families in the charity sector, Louisa became a volunteer mentor to share her experience and support a young person in the community.
In her new role as Mentoring Service Support Officer at The Island, Louisa is looking forward to supporting volunteer mentors throughout their own journey, building relationships with young people and their families, and contributing to an organisation that places community, volunteers, and young people at the heart of its work.
We spoke with Louisa as she sets out on her new journey.
What inspired you to become a mentor?
"I was inspired to become a mentor after recently being made redundant from my role at a charity that supported families. The experience gave me a wealth of skills and knowledge, and I wanted to use that experience in a meaningful way to support and guide a young person.
Working in the charity sector also showed me how vital volunteers are in making a positive difference to people's lives.
Becoming a mentor felt like a natural way to give back, help someone build confidence and achieve their potential, while continuing to make a positive impact in my community."
What has been the most rewarding impact you've seen mentoring have on the young person you support?
"The most rewarding impact I've seen through mentoring has been watching my mentee grow in confidence and become more comfortable expressing himself.
Over time, I've built a strong, trusting relationship with him, and it's been incredibly rewarding to see him find his voice and gain self-belief.
I enjoy listening to his interests, hearing about his experiences at school and within his friendship groups, and supporting him through any challenges he faces. Knowing that I can provide guidance, encouragement, and a positive role model has made the mentoring experience both meaningful and fulfilling."
What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a mentor?
"The advice I would give to someone considering becoming a mentor is to make sure they have the time, commitment, and understanding of what the role involves.
Being a mentor requires consistency and a genuine willingness to support and guide a young person.
If you can be reliable, build trust, and understand the positive impact you can have on someone's life, then I would definitely encourage you to go for it. Mentoring is a rewarding experience that not only helps young people grow and develop but can also be incredibly fulfilling for the mentor."
What are you most looking forward to in your new role at The Island supporting other Volunteer Mentors?
"I'm excited to be joining such an incredible team that places young people and volunteers at the heart of everything they do.
I'm particularly looking forward to meeting the young people and their families, building positive relationships, and making a meaningful difference through the support we provide.
I'm also eager to work alongside and support our amazing mentors throughout their journey, helping them feel confident and empowered as they create lasting, positive impacts in the lives of young people.
Being part of an organisation with such a strong community focus is something I’m really looking forward to."
Whilst you're here, why not read these stories too?
Kieren's Story
Mentor and Ultra-Marathon Runner