Welcome to the latest edition of our newsletter

Young people’s lives are being transformed through our industry-leading e-mentorship programmes, with mentors in more than 40 countries. Could you offer guidance, advocacy and support to a young person who may not have a consistent adult role-model??We are seeking 100 new mentors by the end of March 2025.

The SAYes mentor commitment:

Application: Approximately one hour

Interview: 90 minutes

Training: 12 hrs self-guided learning, then 3 x 4hr workshops

Mentoring: 1 hour per week for 7-9 months, online

Our transition team provides full support throughout your volunteer mentorship, with ongoing workshops and masterclasses to strengthen your skills.

Do good, better: become a mentor. Be part of the 100. Request an application today: email: [email protected]?and mention?#DoGoodBetter

Donate your unspent budget to SAYes

SAYes is a registered Public Benefit Organisation (PBO) in South Africa and is proud to offer tax-deductible donations. When you donate to SAYes, you'll receive a Section 18A tax certificate that you can use to reduce your taxable income. With the financial year end looming, we know the scramble for unspent budget is on. But before you randomly pick a cause from the pile, how about something that engages your team while making a real impact? You can donate here ?? https://sayesmentoring.org/donations-and-donors/

National Mentoring Day USA

In January, we celebrated US National Mentoring Month on our socials. We heard from US-based mentors, and what they liked most about mentoring: ”My favorite thing about mentoring is forming connections with the youth we serve. By listening, understanding, and supporting, we help them discover and develop the tools they need to make autonomous, informed decisions.

I also love that I learn so much about resilience, and how circumstances can impact outcomes especially when given the right support and opportunities.” SAYes has mentors throughout the world. Watch this space for more mentoring travels.

We joined forces with Thrive London (ThriveLdn) to mark Great Mental Health Day. The special day aims to support all of us, to break down the barriers we face when asking for help. And to spotlight the amazing organisations offering support near to where you live.

SAYes also recognised Children’s Mental Health Week. Did you know that young people can join the SAYes programme at aged 14?? With stats showing declining mental health in the U.K., and South Africa, supporting children and young people is more important than ever. For just 1hr a week for 9 months (via video call), you can provide support to a young person who faces disadvantage.?

Meet the SAYes Team Bridget Knight - Team Lead - South African Partner Programme

Bridget is an Accredited Coach, Trainer and Facilitator. She works with individuals and groups to help them overcome limiting beliefs, gain self-awareness and achieve their goals. She is passionate about mental health and is currently working towards a Diploma in Counselling and Communications through SACAP.?

How did you hear about SAYes???It feels like a long time ago, but I believe I first heard about SAYes through a friend. I started working at SAYes when Andrew reached out to see if I wanted to join the team.? ?

What does your role at SAYes entail??As the team lead for the South African Partner Program, My responsibilities include supporting matches and building relationships, onboarding organisations, presenting to corporate partners, and attending in-person events. I also manage the relationships between mentors and mentees, conduct interviews, oversee alumni projects, and provide support. Additionally, I manage relationships with corporate partners, match mediation, and send weekly reports on matches. I drive the success and growth of the South African Partner Program, cultivating transformative experiences that foster meaningful social change.?

You’ve worked with SAYes for many years and witnessed the benefits of mentoring first-hand. Thinking about all the mentee/mentor matches that you’ve overseen, are there any that stand out? It's a tough one to answer, but what stands out is how both the mentor and mentee experience profound transformation, growth, and self-awareness that they previously didn't have. For those mentors who are parents, they've commented on how they have not only become better leaders and communicators at work but have also become better parents. They are now able to connect with their children in ways they never did before.?For the mentees, being able to trust someone enough to share their thoughts, dreams, and aspirations—and getting the opportunity to make shifts in various areas of their life—has been life-changing. They never thought it was possible, yet all it takes is 9 months. That, for me, is truly remarkable.? How do you relax when not at work??For me, relaxation comes from listening to audiobooks, especially those focused on mental health or autobiographies. I also love hiking, traveling, and exploring new places, which is especially exciting as I'm currently living in Portugal. Connecting with friends is another important part of my relaxation routine, allowing me to unwind and enjoy quality time with loved ones.?

In the latest Opinion Piece Articles, Executive Director and Founder Michelle Potter discusses, The Founder's Burden: Why founders need mentors (and why mentoring will help you too).?Read the article on our website blog...

For our South African-based supporters

Choose SAYes as your beneficiary. Note that you can have more than one beneficiary, and you can change your beneficiary online to SAYes. At no cost to you, a percentage of the value of each of your purchases at Woolworths, Engen, Flight Centre, Waltons and loot.co.za will support SAYes. ?

Apply for your free MySchool card today: https://www.myschool.co.za/supporter/apply/ OR Add SAYes as your beneficiary here: https://www.myschool.co.za/supporter/update/

Donate to SAYes