At Raise, we see the transformative power of mentoring every day. This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the incredible women who make up the heart of our programs—our mentors.
With 83% of Raise’s employees identifying as women and 73% of mentors also being female, we are proud to champion women supporting young people through mentoring.
Mentors play a crucial role in guiding and empowering the next generation, offering a listening ear, encouragement, and a safe space for young people to be heard. Their impact goes beyond the hour they spend each week; it shapes lives, builds confidence, and creates lasting change.
Why Women Mentor with Raise
Women from all walks of life join Raise as mentors, each bringing unique experiences, wisdom, and empathy. But what unites them is their desire to give back and support young people during a pivotal time in their lives. In their own words, here’s what mentoring means to them:
“Being a mentor has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Seeing my mentee grow in confidence and open up over the weeks was incredible.”
“As a mentor, I’ve gained just as much as my mentee. It’s a privilege to walk alongside a young person and witness their growth.”
“I remember how hard it was being a teenager. I wanted to be the person I needed at that age.”
“Each week, I leave my mentoring session feeling fulfilled and inspired. It’s amazing how much a small conversation can make a big difference.”
The Impact on Mentees
The effect of having a supportive, trusted adult in their corner is profound for young people. Many mentees describe how their mentor has helped them develop self-confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. One mentee shared:
“My mentor helped me believe in myself. I don’t think I would have opened up to anyone else the way I did with her.”
Another mentee reflected on how mentoring changed their outlook on the future:
“Before Raise, I didn’t really talk about how I was feeling. Now, I feel like I have the confidence to speak up.”
The Women Driving Raise Forward
Beyond our mentors, Raise is also powered by an incredible team of women who lead and support our programs across Australia. From program counsellors to team leaders, their dedication ensures that every young person in our programs receives the best possible support. Their passion and commitment to early intervention make a tangible difference in the lives of young Australians every day.
Join Us in Celebrating Women This IWD
This International Women’s Day, we honour all the female mentors, employees, and supporters who contribute to Raise’s mission. Their dedication to uplifting the next generation is invaluable.
If you’ve ever thought about becoming a mentor, now is the perfect time.
As one of our mentors beautifully put it:
“You don’t need to have all the answers—you just need to listen and show up.”
To all the incredible women making a difference through mentoring: thank you. Your impact is immeasurable, and we celebrate you today and every day.
Stories of Women Who Mentor
Behind every mentoring relationship is a mentor who brings dedication, empathy, and a commitment to making a difference. At Raise, we are fortunate to have incredible women who return year after year, supporting young people through the ups and downs of adolescence. Their experiences show just how powerful mentoring can be—not just for the young people they support, but for the mentors themselves.
Meet four inspiring women who have been mentoring with Raise long-term, each with a unique story of impact, connection, and growth.
Suzanne, Raise Mentor, NSW
What originally motivated you to volunteer to mentor for Raise?
I wanted to give back to my community and had a keen interest in the mental health of young people.
What kept you coming back to mentor for Raise?
Every year was a different positive experience, as every mentee has a unique story. It was a privilege to share time with them each week and hear a small part of their stories. Each group was unique as well and it was lovely to get to know other mentees during the whole group activities or if you were matched differently due to absences. I also had the COVID year when mentoring went online which was different again!
How has Raise Youth mentoring helped you in your own life?
I have been able to develop so many skills through interacting with such a diverse range of young people. It is these same skills that I’ve been able to take home to better connect with my children.
How do you feel Raise Youth Mentoring is creating thriving communities?
By creating a safe space for young people to freely express their thoughts and opinions, both mentors and mentees always left with a smile on their face. Everyone was able to transform as the program progressed, which would help each young person put their best foot forward within their communities.
What would you say to a mentor thinking about mentoring for Raise?
It was extremely rewarding, and I would highly recommend it for anyone considering volunteering in the youth mental health space.
Aileen, Raise Mentor, NSW
What originally motivated you to volunteer to mentor for Raise?
I had experience working with young people and mental health issues before which led me to be a part of the Raise program from the beginning and have seen it develop and go from strength to strength.
What kept you coming back to mentor for Raise?
To have the opportunity to have teenagers share their stories with me and being able to support and encourage them through any challenges they have, is deeply rewarding. The beautiful cards I receive from the mentees each year are a testament to what a difference I can make through volunteering.
How has Raise Youth mentoring helped you in your own life?
It has helped me better connect with my teenage children by increasing my awareness of issues faced by teens and challenging me to consider different perspectives. It has provided me with a sense of fulfillment knowing I’m making a difference in young people’s lives by sowing seeds of positivity and support, and watching it bloom slowly over the program, and beyond.
How do you feel Raise Youth Mentoring is creating thriving communities?
By empowering young people to speak out about their feelings and supporting them in making positive choices. Also, by providing a safe space for young people to be vulnerable and be heard without judgement.
What would you say to a mentor thinking about mentoring for Raise?
I would encourage them to volunteer, as being part of the program will offer enrichment to so many areas of life. Being part of the program is also a great learning experience, with each year teaching you something valuable.
Jenny, Raise Mentor, NSW
What originally motivated you to volunteer to mentor for Raise?
What originally motivated me to volunteer for Raise was my passion for supporting young people through challenging times. Reflecting on my own difficult experiences growing up, particularly in high school, I recognized how crucial it is to have a trusted adult who listens and genuinely cares. I wanted to be that person for others, someone who could help guide young people through their struggles and make a positive impact on their lives.
What kept you coming back to mentor for Raise?
What kept me coming back to mentor for Raise is seeing the transformation in the mentees. Watching their confidence grow, seeing them find their voice, and witnessing them overcome personal challenges is incredibly rewarding. The relationships formed are so meaningful and knowing that I’m making a difference in someone’s life gives me the motivation to keep going.
How has Raise Youth mentoring helped you in your own life?
Raise Youth Mentoring has helped me in my own life by giving me a sense of purpose and fulfillment. It has deepened my understanding of how to communicate and connect with people, and I’ve learned a lot about patience and empathy. Supporting young people also reminds me of my own resilience and personal growth, and it has allowed me to reflect on my journey in a healing way.
How do you feel Raise Youth Mentoring is creating thriving communities?
I believe Raise is creating thriving communities by fostering supportive environments where young people feel valued and heard. By pairing them with mentors who care, Raise is helping to build resilience, improve mental health, and encourage positive decision-making. These young people go on to influence their peers and communities, creating a ripple effect of well-being and connection.
What would you say to a mentor thinking about mentoring for Raise?
To anyone considering mentoring for Raise, I would say: go for it! The time you invest is so valuable, and the impact you can make is life changing—not just for the young person, but for yourself as well. It’s an incredibly rewarding experience, and you’ll be amazed at the difference you can make just by showing up, listening, and caring.
Janet, Raise Mentor, SA
What originally motivated you to volunteer to mentor for Raise?
I had a great mentor while I was studying and wanted to contribute to students in the same way. I also have 5 grandsons and thought volunteering at Raise would provide an opportunity to better connect with them.
What kept you coming back to mentor for Raise?
I got to interact with lovely mentees and truly felt that I was able to positively impact their confidence and mindset while part of the program. The passion of other mentors and Program Counsellors was inspiring and motivated me to keep volunteering.
How has Raise Youth mentoring helped you in your own life?
It challenged me to become more aware and understanding of the issues faced by our youth in the modern day. I have learnt so much from young people through their perspectives and have been able to improve my relationship with my own grandchildren.
How do you feel Raise Youth Mentoring is creating thriving communities?
The Raise program has evolved over time to support young people in different ways. It has helped many young people to improve their confidence and generally feel more positive compared to when they began. It also creates a micro-community within the school, where young people can connect with other peers who they may otherwise have never crossed paths with. This helps to foster a successful school community by encouraging an investment in well-being.
What would you say to a mentor thinking about mentoring for Raise?
I would really encourage them to volunteer! There are so many positive and rewarding outcomes that come from being a part of the program. Being around others who have a passion for supporting young people and their well-being is great as well.
