At-Risk Youth Benefit from Mentorship Programme of MYF

The MultiCare Youth Foundation (MYF) has been providing at-risk youth with the necessary guidance and support to achieve their personal and professional aspirations, through its mentorship programme.

A key initiative under the EU BRIDGE Project, the programme is designed to create a trusted and sustained relationship between mentors and mentees, offering young individuals a vital protective factor.

“Many of our youth lack someone they can confide in, and this initiative seeks to fill that gap by matching them with experienced mentors who can provide insight, encouragement, and practical support,” informed MYF’s Director of Projects and Strategic Management, Mitzian Turner, during a JIS interview.

“Our mentorship programme is more than just career advice, it is a structured, pro-social approach to helping young people set and achieve their goals, and by fostering meaningful connections between mentors and mentees, we are building a support system that empowers young people to take charge of their future,” she added.

The MYF mentorship programme also pairs each mentee with a dedicated mentor based on shared interests, career aspirations, and personality traits.

For persons to be paired successfully, mentees undergo life skills training, which includes setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals; improving communication and teamwork skills; and developing problem-solving techniques.

Mrs. Turner further explained that once matched, mentors commit to at least one year of guidance, providing consistent check-ins and support.

“The MYF also ensures that mentors are well-equipped by offering training in psychological first aid and child-safeguarding principles, helping them navigate the challenges of mentoring at-risk youth effectively,” she added.

The Director said the success of the programme is measured by the sustainability of mentor-mentee relationships and the achievement of set goals.

“Many mentees have successfully transitioned into employment or further education, with mentors actively assisting them in securing job placements and essential civil documents,” she shared.

“We’ve seen first-hand the impact of mentorship,” said the Director, adding that “these relationships continue even after the official programme period, which speaks to the lasting influence and value of this initiative.”

The MYF is calling on professionals from all fields to become mentors and make a lasting difference in a young person’s life. Individuals with experience in mediation, counselling, conflict resolution, or a passion for youth development are especially encouraged to participate.

“We provide all the training and resources necessary for our mentors. No one is expected to navigate this journey alone; we ensure continuous support throughout,” the Director emphasised.

For youth interested in joining, the MYF mentorship programme offers a structured path to success by providing the necessary guidance, exposure, and resources to help them realise their dreams.

To sign up as a mentor or mentee, persons may visit The MultiCare Youth Foundation’s website at www.myfjamaica.org or telephone 876-922-6670.