YWCA High School Mentorship Program
Programs & Services

High School Mentorship

Back to Mentorship

The YWCA High School Mentorship program supports young women, non-binary and trans students in high school to build pathways for their future.  

Mentors support youth in their transition to further education or employment, nurture their leadership skills and address barriers they may experience along the way. 

How the Program Works 

We match young women, non-binary and trans youth in Grades 11 and 12 (mentees) with volunteer professionals (mentors) for a one-to-one mentoring relationship. Matches are based on career and education goals, hobbies and the level of support required. Mentees and mentors meet a minimum of once each month. 

To ensure a low-barrier program, we offer free workshops and events (November - June), in addition to monthly newsletters with free and low-cost activity ideas. 

We welcome members of the non-binary, Two-Spirit, trans, queer and disabled communities.

Program Timeline

July – October: Are you passionate about supporting youth and their professional growth? Share your experience and provide guidance and support to help shape the career of a young woman, non-binary or trans youth in your community. 

To become a mentor, you will need to:

  • Complete the application form
  • Attend an orientation session
  • Provide two references
  • Complete a Criminal Record Check

For more information or to apply, contact the High School Mentorship team at mentorship@ywcavan.org or phone Program Manager Dvorah Silverman at 604 209 6355.

September – October: Unsure about your career interests and looking for support? A mentor can be there to guide and support you, and help you explore your academic and professional interests. 

How to apply:

  • Apply online (we are not currently accepting applications)
  • Attend an interview
  • Attend the mentee training session

For more information, contact the High School Mentorship team at mentorship@ywcavan.org or phone Program Supervisor Dvorah Silverman at 604 209 6355.

October – November: Matches between mentees and mentors are based on career interests, personalities and the support mentees need to succeed. Only candidates who demonstrate a genuine interest and are ready to make a commitment from November to June will be considered.

Our volunteer mentors are caring adults who are committed to helping their mentees grow professionally. Mentors understand the value of a positive adult friendship and the importance of role models in a young person’s life. Mentors gain as much from the relationships as the mentees, often making life-long friends.

Mentees who have benefit the most are flexible and open to new experiences, able to express their needs, maintain consistent and open communication, take initiative when organizing meetings and are committed and motivated!

November – June: You’ll meet at least once a month for seven months.

Some activities our mentors and mentees like to do together include:

  • Meeting over coffee or video to chat about career goals and education plans
  • Touring universities/colleges
  • Researching and discussing education programs/options
  • Arranging job shadowing (if appropriate)
  • Participating in recreational activities
  • Attending workshops, classes and events together