Inspiring Brighter Futures: Mentor program expanding to support at-risk youth in Townsville

An intensive eight-week mentoring program helping to transform the lives of at-risk youth in Townsville has put the call out for more community mentors as it expands.

Heatley Secondary College students Holly Gofton and Katie Weston, with their mentors Mario Romeo and Meredith Wenta. Picture: Evan Morgan

An intensive eight-week mentoring program helping to transform the lives of at-risk youth in Townsville has put the call out for more community mentors as it expands.

Spearheaded by the Inspiring Brighter Futures Foundation, the Onwards and Upwards program has been running at Heatley Secondary College and Townsville State High School since its inception last year.

Founder John Godwin said they want to expand and were in discussions with Northern Beaches State High School and three other schools and centres that work with at-risk year nine and ten students, helping them become leaders.

Over eight weeks, participants undertake a personal development and mentoring program that uncovers and embraces their values and takes a deep dive into their wellbeing, motivation, resilience and accountability.

Heatley Secondary students Holly Gofton and Katie Weston said they had both learned a lot from their mentors, particularly about being more confident.

“It’s really helped me open up and talk to people much more,” Holly said.

“They helped me get my blue card, which is a huge first step because I want to get into early childhood education and teach daycare.”

Former Kirwan High principal Meredith Wenta said she came on board as a mentor in her retirement because she thought it was a rewarding experience.

“When students first come to us, they are often very shy; they don’t interact a lot at first, and then you just see them blossom,” she said.

Heatley Secondary College students Holly Gofton and Katie Weston have completed an eight-week mentoring program making a difference in the lives of at-risk youth in Townsville. Picture: Evan Morgan

Queensland Country Bank branch manager Mario Romeo said being a mentor was a great opportunity to share some of his experiences with children who might be struggling.

“For me, I think it’s more than just helping them find a job; you find yourself becoming a bit of a pseudo-parent,” he said.

“We all face challenges, and some of these kids come from disadvantaged backgrounds, so it’s worth showing them opportunities and different ways of doing things so they can lead productive lives.

“We don’t judge. We just want to impart our experiences.”

Mr Godwin said they are also looking for new local mentors and financial support. For more information, visit: inspiringbrighterfutures.com

Originally published as Inspiring Brighter Futures: Mentor program expanding to support at-risk youth in Townsville