I have been lucky enough to maintain a career in youth work for the past 13 years, driven by the positive difference I know that youth work can have on young peoples’ lives. I greatly enjoy my role as Youth Mentor as I feel it is very rewarding being able to witness first-hand the positive impact this role can have. Sometimes this can be subtle smaller differences in a young person’s demeanour or behaviour, whereas for others, the changes can feel quite lifechanging.
One of the most special elements of the role, is having the capacity to build a trusted relationship with the young person, developing a bond which enables them to feel comfortable and safe. This then provides a positive platform from which support and nurture can be provided, and further change will often begin to grow. Trust can also support open and honest conversations with young people which enables us to safeguard them appropriately and help to bring about realistic change.
I see a lot of myself as a younger person in the young people I work with. I am passionate about helping them to succeed in life by building self-confidence and encouraging young people to have positive aspirations for their own futures.
The world can be scary at times and knowing within my role I have helped to make even a slight difference, is very rewarding for me.
Rebecca Magowan, Achieve Youth Mentor