Big Sisters seeks new mentors for expanded Metro Vancouver empowerment program

Some of the most important skills and lessons we learn in life come from passing on our knowledge to others. And an important Big Sisters of B.C. Lower Mainland program can help you do just that.

Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland is piloting an innovative approach to gender-based violence (GBV) prevention through an interactive and age-appropriate mentorship-based program that equips youth with critical knowledge, skills, and confidence.

Big Sisters’ My Voice, My Power! is an ongoing mentorship program for Grades 4 to 7 in several cities throughout the region.

The non-profit is looking to recruit additional volunteer mentors for My Voice, My Power! as well as other one-on-one and group mentorship programs. Those interested in mentoring can apply online.

Big Sisters of B.C. Lower Mainland

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My Voice, My Power! helps self-identified girls and gender-diverse youth realize their unique strengths and their rights, and to speak up for themselves and each other.

This initiative is part of the Women and Gender Equality Canada-funded Power in Prevention project, and strengthens resilience by building supportive relationships between mentors and mentees and friendships among mentees

“I have loved being part of My Voice, My Power! Seeing the youth gain confidence each session has been incredible,” said one mentor. “I wish I had a program like this growing up,”

Participants learn about gender stereotypes and systemic inequalities, explore healthy relationships, boundary setting, and internet safety and gain a sense of belonging and pride in themselves.

This fun, empowering eight-session program, which includes art, games, outdoor activities and engaging discussions, is led by two to three volunteer mentors who are screened and trained by Big Sisters.

Requirements to be a My Voice, My Power! mentor include:

• Located in or willing to travel to Vancouver, North Vancouver, Tri-Cities, Burnaby, and Surrey schools
• 19+ years of age
• A woman or gender-diverse individual
• Canadian resident for the past year (or able to provide an International Criminal Records Check)
• Passionate about mentoring others and supporting self-identifying girls and gender-diverse youth
• Reliable, resourceful, and committed

Big Sisters of B.C. Lower Mainland

“One of the most memorable moments I’ve had as a mentor was witnessing the incredible growth of one of my mentees over the course of our eight weeks together,” said a My Voice, My Power! mentor. “When we first met, she was a quiet, reserved girl who struggled to share her thoughts in the group and remained distant even in one-on-one conversations. However, by the end of our time together, she had truly blossomed.

“She became actively engaged with the group, confidently expressing her ideas and experiences. She even began initiating conversations with the mentors, eagerly sharing stories about her love for gymnastics and her family vacation plans.”

Visit Big Sisters of B.C. Lower Mainland and My Voice, My Power! online for more information about the program and other mentorship opportunities.