Mentor Together

The mentorship programme focuses on four key stages designed to foster a strong and trusting relationship between mentors and mentees. The first stage, "CONNECT," establishes trust and comfort, followed by "EMPOWER," where mentees work on enhancing various aspects of their lives with the help of mentors. In the "LEVEL" stage, power differences are eliminated, fostering a mutual relationship where both mentor and mentee contribute and learn. Finally, in the "EVOLVE" stage, mentees make future life decisions with guidance from mentors. Additionally, a toolkit featuring 18 life and work skills, adapted from UNICEF's classification, supports mentors and mentees throughout their journey.

In its life skills mentoring programme, Mentor Together addresses the unique challenges faced by children in crowded classrooms and under-resourced communities, particularly those at high risk due to family, economic, and individual factors. Focusing on adolescents aged 13 to 15, the program spans three years, from class 8 to class 10, with the aim of equipping them with essential life skills for a successful transition beyond high school. Mentoring takes place in various settings, including the community, schools, and the Mentor Together office, involving a commitment of 6 to 8 hours per month over 12 months. The programme features an 80-hour life skills toolkit and operates in cities such as Pune, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Delhi.

In its work skills mentoring programme, Mentor Together addresses the pressing issues within India's higher education system, where a significant number of graduates face unemployment. This programme is designed to bridge the gap by focusing on young people aged 18 to 21, providing them with career-focused learning opportunities and a chance to engage with professionals in real work settings. Lasting for 10 months with a commitment of 6 to 8 hours per month, the programme operates in collaboration with NGO partners like the Foundation for Excellence, India Trust, and Magic Bus. Mentoring occurs at various locations, including the mentor's workplace, the Mentor Together office, and NGO partner offices, and features a 60-hour life skills toolkit. This initiative serves cities such as Pune, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Delhi, aiming to empower young individuals for meaningful and sustainable careers.