Kids Inspire’s mentoring programme has been a cornerstone of our charity’s work for many years, providing vital support to children and young people across Essex. With the help of dedicated volunteers, the programme pairs our fully trained mentors with young people who are navigating challenging times. Mentoring gives them the comfort and commitment of a trusted adult and role model. Spending an hour together each week provides ongoing support throughout an agreed period of time.

Meet Maddie

Among these volunteers is Maddie, whose journey with Kids Inspire began several years ago. Initially involved in various aspects of the charity, Maddie’s passion for supporting young people led her to train as a mentor.

Tell us about yourself

I am a volunteer ambassador for Kids Inspire and have supported the charity through fundraising, as a mentor and as a member of the Environmental Committee over the past few years.

I am an environmental science graduate and I work in the climate risk team at Nationwide Building Society. I have used my skill set in sustainability to support Kids Inspire with their carbon footprint and Earth Day campaigns.

I’m passionate about young people and environmental causes and I like to encourage young people to consider higher education or careers in STEM and the sustainability field through volunteering or speaking opportunities with charities and schools in my professional network. 

In my spare time, I enjoy going on park runs (this year I ran the Brentwood half marathon for Kids Inspire and I just signed up for the Manchester Marathon next year), travelling to new places and spending time with family and friends (hopefully involving tasty food!).

Why did you choose to train to be a mentor?

Before becoming a mentor for Kids Inspire, I have been involved in mentoring with other charities. I really enjoyed the experience of working with, and supporting young people.

I’ve also had some amazing mentors throughout my education and since entering the world of work. I have got a lot out of their advice and guidance and wanted to help others in the same way.

What's your favourite part of mentoring?

I enjoy getting to know a young person and bonding over fun activities. My favourite part of mentoring is seeing a young person grow in confidence and evolve throughout our time spent together.

How do you explain the role of a mentor?

I would explain the role of the mentor as an impartial guiding voice for the mentee as they navigate sometimes challenging, and difficult experiences in their life. 

What is a personal highlight from your journey as a mentor?

As I reflect on my three years as a mentor, my personal highlights have been small wins such as a mentee opening up to me more, or seeing them grow in confidence week by week. Other than that, it would be going ice skating with my mentees! 

What advice would you give to someone thinking about becoming a mentor?

I think anyone can bring a lot to a young person’s life through mentoring. You don’t need to have experienced the same things as your mentee, or even have years of life experience - just by spending time with them and listening you can be an amazing mentor and a positive influence in their life.

Learn more about our mentoring programme, how you can train to become a volunteer mentor or refer a child or young person to Kids Inspire.