Words by Smiley Team
The Raheem Sterling Foundation has partnered with Promise Foundation to deliver a 12-month mentorship programme to students at Ark Elvin Academy in Brent, London.
Promise Foundation provides young people with a mentoring relationship that unlocks their potential. The mentors help to increase self esteem, motivation and confidence, help develop a wider understanding of career options, encourage a positive mental attitude and improve interpersonal skills such as negotiating and listening.
The programme at Ark Elvin, funded by the Raheem Sterling Foundation, has appointed 10 professionals from a range of different backgrounds in sport, tech and the public sector, guide 10 students over the next year.
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Mentorship has been a vital part of Raheem’s life and Clive has been by his side since his days at Ark Elvin Academy, supporting him on and off the pitch.
"The aim for mentoring is to provide hope, opportunities, creativity but also change future generations," said Clive. "It’s important to look at where a young person is and where they want to be – mentors aren’t just role models, they are goal models.
"This partnership will offer young people, as it did Raheem, better life choices and thrive, but also support in achieving their dreams and goals in everyday life – not just in a school setting but in everyday society.’’
Based in Brent, The Promise Foundation was inspired by co-founder Promise Knight who, through her own mentor journey, wanted to give young people the opportunity to learn vital life lessons and skills.
"Mentoring is so fundamentally important," said Promise. "It’s a lifeline. There is a direct link between the acceptance, advice and support that I received from my mentor that has made me who I am today.
"Raheem’s vision for better social mobility chimes with ours. Promise Foundation is about enabling young people to reach their goals, transform their lives and broaden their horizons. Communities have to come together and become responsible for the delivery of social mobility, as the Raheem Sterling Foundation does. Esstential programmes like mentorships would not be possible without its support.’’
HOW YOU CAN HELP: Find out what The Promise Foundation is looking for from its supporters.
BECOME A MENTOR: Want to become a mentor yourself? Find out more with ReachOut.
