Tertiary Students Proving The Perfect Mentors

Staff and student volunteer mentors from some of Queensland’s biggest educational institutions are providing vital mentoring services to young people and adults in need through programs being delivered by the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation.

Job placement programs from courses are providing needed experience for students as they complete their course requirements, and in turn, provide a range of skilled mentors to encourage and inspire.

Two main programs are being delivered by the Foundation, with one-on-one mentoring being a core component delivered to its core groups of young people facing challenges, emerging student leaders, and job seekers.

The Foundation has forged partnerships with TAFE Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, University of Queensland, James Cook University, Griffith University, and Bond University.

Not only are students joining the mentoring program, but staff are also actively becoming involved.

Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation Co-Founder Prue Long said that students are coming from a variety of course backgrounds and offering different skillsets and perspectives in the programs.

“These students are studying degrees including in psychology, counselling, and certificates in community services, mental health, and youth work and education support,” Prue said.

“They are proving to be good role models for our young people in the programs. It’s good for them to be inspired by a mentor closer to their age and to see where their schooling has taken them, and hear how they have overcome their own challenges.”

Ashley Gilby, a second-year psychology student from the University of Queensland, said the placement was helping her with her studies and confirming her career choice, and that it is great to watch young people grow through the program.

“The person I worked with was very closed up when we started, and watching him open up and talk to me about deep things was insightful and wonderful to see,” Ashley said.

“It is a great opportunity to both help other people, and grow yourself, and step out of your comfort zone and give back to the community.”

Erin Newberry, who is studying a bachelor of counselling at Griffith University, said her placement mentoring experience will help her a lot personally.

“I really want to work in a high school as a counsellor, so hearing about all their experiences is great exposure for me to understand students better,” Erin said.

Prue Long said one student mentor from QUT had gone on to become a facilitator with Inspiring Brighter Futures and lead programs.

With a focus on mentoring, education, job, and training outcomes, the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation supports disengaged individuals to achieve positive life outcomes.

Onwards & Upwards is the Foundation’s flagship self-development program created to support young people and adults in need.

The programs are delivered with one-on-one mentoring and/or via an online learning platform to two main groups: school-aged young people and the long-term unemployed.

Prue says the Foundation is looking for new local mentors and financial support, which is fully tax-deductible.

The Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation plans to hold over 80 programs in 2025 in Queensland, focusing on its core groups of young people facing challenges, emerging student leaders, and job seekers.

The Foundation welcomes new mentors. To register your interest and to find out more, please visit inspiringbrighterfutures.com

You can make a general donation to Inspiring Brighter Futures and know that you’re directly improving the well-being and future of people in our community who need it the most.

ENDS media enquiries to Brenton Gibbs 0419 828440 [email protected]