“What would you say to your 15-year old self?” was the theme of the day. Mentor’s mission is to reinforce young people’s self-confidence and belief in the future, and the goal is to have as many young people as possible increase their self-esteem and empower them to follow their paths. By offering advice to “your 15-year old self,” adults were able to share advice and words of wisdom with today’s teenagers. They were able to be a role model.
A role model is a person whom others look to as a positive, strong example of how to be, and they can be incredibly powerful for young people. During “Mentor Day,” Mentor Sweden took this concept one step further and gave adults an opportunity to be a role model on-the-spot and tell a young person something they wished they had heard when they were young. “It was micro-mentorship,” said Karin Jordås, Mentor Sweden’s Secretary General, of the day.
The day was in full swing at Central Station between 8 am and 7 pm. Young people from schools around Stockholm competed to win an event at their school with pastry chef, author, and TV-personality, Roy Fares. Christer Fuglesang, Sweden’s only space traveler, discussed how he managed to fulfill his dreams, and there was a panel discussion between representatives from the business and non-profit sector about sustainable business and CSR. There was also a series of hands-on activities throughout the day with Mentor Sweden’s partners, JM, SEB, Coca-Cola, and Saab.
Most importantly, however, Mentor Sweden’s takeover of Central Station provided the perfect opportunity to experience Mentor live. Everyone was welcome to come by and talk to Mentor kids who participate in their programs or volunteers who know what it takes to make a difference. “As soon as you entered the main hall, you could feel the inspiration, creativity, and energy,” said Marija Pertot, Project Manager-Mentor Sweden.
All activities were free of charge, required no registration, and were open to the public.
Mentor Sweden is a non-profit organization that, through mentorships, gives young people aged 13-17 the self-confidence and strength. Their vision is a world where young people are empowered to make healthy decisions and live drug-free. For more information, visit www.mentor.se