All Solutions

Julia Farr Youth Mentoring Program (JFYMP)

The Problem

The mentoring program focuses on the following:

•Young people living with disability connecting into their local communities - The mentoring program encourages people to be included as active citizens in the life of the wider community. We believe that every person has intrinsic worth and is entitled to a fair go at what life has to offer;

•Opportunity for capacity building – The mentoring program builds confidence and leadership capacity particularly in the context of active citizenhood. This also includes the wider community growing its capacity to be welcoming and supportive of people living with disability;

•Personal authority –The mentoring program encourages people to exercise control over the decisions they make in their lives, and to exercise their right to an ordinary valued life. Mentors can also offer guidance on issues of social connection and relationships.

The Solution

Led by the Julia Farr Youth Group, JFYMP is an initiative where young people living with disability (aged 16-30) spend time in a mentoring role with a younger person also living with disability (aged 11-16).

Mentors offer guidance to mentees with everyday activities including the transition from primary school to high school, linking young people in with their community or having a chat about life experiences, problem solving strategies and what was helpful for them when they were growing up.

Mentors are passionate about young people living inclusive lives, exercising control over their lives and having the opportunity to develop to their full potential. Each mentor strives to meet the interests of each individual mentee with a focus on confidence, social connection, personal vision and life choices.

The mentor program provides an opportunity for young adults living with disability to be a positive role model and to develop their leadership capacity.