Mentoring Program Empowers Girls at Brisbane Bayside SC

Brisbane Bayside State College is among a growing number of schools embracing the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation’s Onwards & Upwards mentoring program to positively impact students’ lives.

The school is preparing to launch its fourth round of the program, which supports girls in Years 7 to 10.

Principal Catherine McCarthy explained that while the school already offers a program for young men called Top Blokes, which focuses on confidence and leadership, they wanted to ensure young women had access to similar opportunities.

Having witnessed the benefits of the Onwards & Upwards program at a previous school, Catherine identified a gap in intervention programs for young women when she joined Brisbane Bayside SC. This led to the program’s introduction in 2025.

“I’m personally very passionate about providing interventions and opportunities for all our students,” Catherine said.
“Society is changing, and I see with my own kids that they often struggle to communicate with adults outside their immediate circle.
“Programs like this help young people gain confidence in speaking with and learning from adults in one-on-one settings. The connection they learn to form with adult mentors is invaluable.”

The school’s student support team works closely with year-level coordinators, deputy principals, guidance officers, and support staff to identify suitable students, who are then invited to participate.

“We’ve found that word of mouth is very powerful too,” Catherine added. “Students who’ve already completed the program often encourage others to join – some even ask to participate again.”

The impact on students has, in many cases, been transformational.

Catherine shared the story of a neurodivergent student who began the program disengaged but, by graduation, was confidently speaking in front of the group. Other students, such as those who helped organise a Pasifika community event, have stepped into leadership roles they may never have considered before.

She expressed her hope that the program will continue to grow, potentially expanding to include mentoring for student leaders, offering support similar to what a principal receives.

“Leadership comes with many responsibilities, and mentoring could provide valuable guidance,” she said.

Catherine also praised the way the program helps students develop a personal mantra and articulate their values. During graduation ceremonies, students share what matters to them and express gratitude to their mentors, who respond with affirming feedback. These relationships—especially with male mentors — can be very meaningful for girls who may not have such figures in their lives.

“The facilitators create a safe and comfortable environment, foster confidence, and bring positive energy to the sessions,” she said.
“The mentors come from diverse backgrounds, and their experiences help broaden students’ perspectives. Many are eager to give back and often gain just as much from the experience as they contribute.”

The four programs being held at Brisbane Bayside State College in 2025 have been made possible by funding provided by the Queensland Government’s Kickstarter program for community-led initiatives focusing on reducing youth crime, boosting education, and providing training or employment for at-risk youths.

Onwards & Upwards is the flagship self-development program of the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation, designed to support young people and adults in need.

Delivered over eight weeks in public, private, and flexi schools, the Onwards & Upwards Wellbeing Program takes participants on a personal development and mentoring journey. It encourages them to uncover and embrace their individual values while exploring wellbeing, motivation, resilience, and accountability.

In 2025, the Foundation is delivering more than 80 programs across Queensland, focusing on three core groups: young people facing challenges, emerging student leaders, and job seekers.

The Foundation welcomes new mentors. To register your interest or learn more, visit inspiringbrighterfutures.com.

You can also make a general donation to Inspiring Brighter Futures, knowing that your contribution directly improves the wellbeing and future of those in our community who need it most.

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