b'MENTORSHIPMENTORSHIP:A UNIQUELYSUPPORTIVE ROLENurturing Indigenous youth through their high school yearsBy Chelsea ReidL ook up, look within. TheseIn their own ways, the mentor andoptions aligned with their aspira-are two concepts everymentee can draw parallels fromtions, and leading by example. young person shouldtheir lives or gain insights into theConnection is a significant asset consider as they navigate thechallenges that may lie ahead.for Indigenous youth, helping unpredictable waves of the evolu- Often, mentors have gone throughto address their challenges in tion of growth and ultimately findrelatable experiences, includingconnecting to their community, their sense of self. Their immediatemistakes. Mentors offer hope byfamily and culture as they transition circle of influence includes family,sharing these stories and normal- from a reserve environment to off-friends and teachers who impactizing the challenges that arise alongreserve schooling.how they see the world; thesethe way. This hope stems from the could also be the same individualsunderstanding that success is not aIndspire invests in the education who can inadvertently support thelinear path and may look differentand support of First Nations, Inuit hopes they hold for their journey.from the journey of their peers,and Mtis students for the long The projections of dreams andemphasizing why they should forgeterm, growing with them as they expectations from those aroundtheir own unique paths instead. advance to post-secondary educa-them can sometimes lead to self- tion and fulfil their career aspira-discovery or inspiration. In contrast,Through Indspires online Riverstions. High school students can join a mentor can assume a uniquelyto Success program, mentors andthe riverstosuccess.ca platform as supportive role during these forma- mentees curate their profiles,well, to access group mentorship tive years.much like a Facebook page, whereand tutoring to help improve their they share information aboutgrades for graduation and post-Why mentorship? Mentorshipthemselves through short bios. Ansecondary education applications. serves as a mirror. When pairedalgorithm matches mentors and with the right mentor, a youngmentees based on location, homeRivers to Success mentors comprise person can witness reflectionscommunity, areas of develop- working professionals and commu-of self-worth, receive guidancement, and hobbies. Mentees andnity members committed to making toward their goals, and accessmentors enter their own goalsa difference. Mentors volunteer networking opportunities forthat they want to achieve from thetheir time and knowledge to success. Mentorship offers a lessrelationship.empower the next generation. biased and non-judgmental spaceWhen Indigenous youth feel The goal is to maintain frequentsupported and seen, they are for growth beyond the classroom.touchpoints to ensure ongoingmore likely to engage actively in Navigating a world where tradi- engagement. The initial meetingtheir learning journey, leading to tional rites of passage are lessmight feel intimidating, yet it marksimproved performance and more practised, Indigenous students canthe beginning of a journey towardenthusiasm for education. focus on both short-term gainsgoal-setting and personal growth. and their long-term vision withWith the right mentor-menteeEducation does not transform the help of mentors. Mentors canpairing, mentors can identifythe world. Education changes aid the mentees progress withoutstrengths and guide mentees inpeople. People change the world. - sacrificing their community ties. building confidence, exploringPaulo Freire. 40indspiration2023'