Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Mentor
- Pillars Ka Pou Whakahou
- Feb 5
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 2
Becoming a mentor is a life-changing opportunity for you and the tamariki you support. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions to help you take the first step toward becoming a mentor.
Why should I become a mentor?
Mentoring helps tamariki and rangatahi (young people) build confidence and self-esteem, form positive connections within their community, experience new opportunities outside their home environment and see a role model living a healthy lifestyle.
But here’s something you might not expect: mentors often find the experience just as rewarding.
Many mentors say it changes their own lives for the better:
“I've actually really loved it. I think I get as much out of it as the kids do. It gives me something to look forward to every week.”
“I was surprised by how much fun I had! The kids are great, and I ended up looking forward to our time together.”
“It's such a great feeling knowing that you're a positive role model for someone who really needs it. I think it brings a lot of joy to both of us.”
What is the time commitment?
Mentors spend time with their mentee once every fortnight.
Activities can be as simple as playing sports, going to the park or the beach, or sharing a favourite hobby.
The activities don't have to be extravagant or expensive. The most important thing is your time, attention, and being a consistent, positive presence in their life.
What are the requirements to become a mentor?
We’re looking for people who are:
Flexible, empathetic, and fun-loving.
Able to commit to mentoring once every two weeks for a minimum of a year.
Licensed drivers with access to a car to help transport their mentee.
How will I be matched with my mentee?
Our mentoring coordinators carefully match mentors with tamariki or rangatahi based on shared interests, goals, and personality. For example, if you both love football, that could be the activity you bond over during your meetups.
The matching process is designed to create a positive and supportive relationship. Our team interviews the tamariki and whānau, as well as you as a mentor to ensure the best fit.
You won’t be alone—our Mentoring Coordinators will attend the first meeting with you and your mentee’s whānau to offer tautoko (support) and guidance.
Do whānau opt into the programme?
Yes, whānau choose to participate in the mentoring programme. Many whānau contact us, asking for mentoring support for their tamariki.
The families we work with have already engaged with our wraparound social work programme before being matched with a mentor.
Whānau often express immense gratitude, knowing their tamariki are supported by a trusted, askable adult in the community.
What support will I receive as a mentor?
We’re with you every step of the way!
As a mentor, you’ll have access to:
Comprehensive Training: You’ll attend an orientation session to learn about health and safety, confidentiality, and mentoring tips to help you feel confident. You’ll also connect with new mentors and your mentoring coordinators in the process!
Ongoing Support: Our Mentoring Coordinators are available to answer your questions and guide you.
A Mentor Community: Join our mentoring Facebook group, where you can share ideas, connect with other mentors, and plan group activities.
Regular Supervision and Events: Participate in mentor trainings, group outings, and fun events like camp days, zoo trips, and scavenger hunts for mentors and mentees.
What is expected of a mentor?
Tamariki impacted by whānau incarceration often face an invisible sentence of stigma, shame, and social isolation—through no fault of their own.
As a mentor, your role is simple yet powerful:
Be a consistent, trusted adult in their life.
Spend time together every two weeks doing activities you both enjoy.
Becoming a mentor is as simple as being there, being a mate.
I’m nervous about making a commitment. What if it’s overwhelming?
Many of our mentors felt the same way at first. But once they meet their mentee and whānau, they realise how natural and reciprocal the experience is.
It’s not about extravagant outings or being perfect—it’s about showing up and being present.
How do I become a mentor?
The process of becoming a mentor is simple and designed to set you up for success:
Learn More: Enter your details, and we will send you more information about your path to mentoring. Learn about our mentoring programme at your own pace via an online information video or book an in-person mentor information session.
Apply: After learning more, you can fill out your expression of interest form. It lets our mentoring team learn more about you and answer any questions you may have.
Home Interview: Our team will meet with you at your home to get to know you better and ensure the programme is the right fit for you.
Reference and Police Checks: We’ll talk with your references and complete a police check.
Orientation Training: Attend a training day where you’ll gain tools and tips to feel confident as a mentor.
Match Meeting: Our coordinators will match you with a mentee, and they’ll accompany you to meet the tamariki and their whānau.
Learn more about your journey to becoming a mentor here.
Ready to take the first step? You’ll not only change your mentee’s life but enrich your own in ways you never imagined.
Comments