Yosef arrived to the UK from Ethiopia three years ago, to seek safety and protection. When he arrived, he felt lonely and frightened and found it challenging adjusting to a new culture. This resulted in Yosef suffering with his mental health, feeling low and very anxious. Feeling unsettled and unsafe, there was a deep need for guidance, support, and a sense of belonging.
A nurse he was working with at Southwark Day Centre for Asylum Seekers (SDCAS), who felt that he could benefit from one-to-one support, referred him to Hope for the Young, to help him boost his confidence and support him in his education. Ellie, our Programme Manager, matched him with Helen, a Volunteer Mentor who has supported young people with Hope for the Young for four years.
“I have no words - Helen is the best mentor in the universe. Life could have been very difficult for me without her.” Yosef*, Mentee
Two and a half years on since they were first matched, Helen has found the change in Yosef transformative. From being shy and lacking confidence, to now having a secure circle of friends, taking up running to improve fitness, training to become a barista and working part-time in Pret A Manger and even learning to play the guitar – all alongside studying hard both at college and university.
Helen and Yosef also completed a range of activities to help his anxiety and lack of confidence. They did this by exploring London together, travelling on public transport and practicing talking to strangers, and generally becoming familiar with London life.
“A highlight of my time with Yosef has been the sheer joy of watching his incredible growth - both in confidence and self- belief. " Helen, Mentor
Through working with Helen, Yosef has also gained confidence in his studies, which enabled him to pass his GCSEs and then a BTEC in Business Studies – qualifications he needed to successfully apply to university. He is now enrolled at the South Bank University in London, where he is studying Accounting and Finance, which has allowed him to be one step closer to achieving his dream of becoming a successful businessman or accountant.
Through regular sessions, Yosef shared that Helen helped him process feelings of fear and anxiety. Her patience and empathy allowed him to feel listened to, giving him confidence to speak to strangers, and have everyday interactions.
“It has taken a while, but now I feel safe, happy and settled and am following my dream of being in university.” Yosef*, Mentee
Yosef also recently applied to become a Youth Ambassador and is now part of the Youth Ambassador network at Hope for the Young. Alongside his fellow Youth Ambassadors, he will be an integral voice within Hope for the Young, allowing us to centre young people at the heart of our decision-making processes.
His progress in confidence to where he is now is amazing, and we are so proud to watch him grow and succeed in his dreams! We’re excited to see what the future holds.
You can ensure that more young people like Yosef have access to the mentoring support and education they need to thrive. Click the buttons below to donate or become a mentor yourself!
*Yosef’s identity is hidden to preserve his anonymity.