What Youth Need from Us in 2025

By Ania Hodges

January is National Mentorship Month, and as I reflect on the many mentors who have supported my personal and professional growth, it raises an important question: What made those mentors so influential, and how can we connect today’s youth to equally dynamic and effective mentorship? 

I am Big Thought’s Youth Advancement Coordinator, which means I have the honor of leading Voice Work, a project that gathers real-time data from youth through storytelling and design sessions. In November, we hosted roundtables with youth ages 16-24 to answer the questions: What do youth need? What do youth value? How can youth empower each other? How can adults assist? Based on the insights shared by the youth, here are some key considerations for fostering effective mentor/mentee relationships. 

Dignity 
Empowering youth starts with respecting their experiences, especially those who have navigated challenging systems such as foster care or juvenile justice. These experiences impact their confidence and mental health, making it essential to intentionally uphold their dignity and self-worth. 

The Role of Mentorship 
Mentorship was a strong theme in our roundtables. Many young people shared how having a great mentor shaped their journey, while others expressed a strong desire for such guidance. Mentors provide not only support but also confidence, helping youth navigate challenges with resilience. 

Building Trust 
Trust is essential for youth to feel valued. When young people are entrusted with important tasks, or trusted in their merit, it boosts their self-esteem. They also emphasized the importance of trusting mentors and staff to ensure their physical and emotional safety, creating a solid foundation for mutual respect and success. 

Collaborative Peer Spaces 
A key insight from youth discussions was their view of peers as companions, not competitors. They thrive in environments where they can grow together, uplift each other, and build community. As a mentor, guiding youth to these collaborative spaces supports both individual and collective growth. 

Mentorship is more than just offering advice; it’s about fostering a trusted relationship. Using the insights shared by youth, that relationship can be achieved. 

Ready to make an impact? Explore the many ways you can get involved with Big Thought today.