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Dear Community,
It brings me great pleasure to present the latest edition of our quarterly newsletter.
As we step into a new year, allow us to reintroduce ourselves!
In this edition, we provide insights into our personal experiences, challenges, and the rewards of creating a human-centred connection with the community.
Our team is the heartbeat of Mentivity, and each member plays a unique role in shaping the future. From Teean's dedication to empowering our young people through the Raising Aspirations Project to Sinem's innovative approach to holistic wellness, our diverse team is the driving force behind Mentivity's transformative impact.
January marked 8 years of Mentivity, and as we’ve reflected on this journey I was reminded that Mentivity was born out of the desire to create something that the community could rally behind.
The vision remains strong, and the passion is unwavering. We still believe that every individual in our community has a role to play.
As we continue on this journey together, we invite you to join us in shaping a future where every young person's aspirations are not just dreams but tangible realities.
Your support, no matter the size, fuels our work.
Thank you for being a part of the Mentivity community. Together, we are truly making a difference.
Warm regards,
Sayce Holmes-Lewis. Founder & CEO
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ALLOW US TO REINTRODUCE OURSELVES.MEET THE TEAM
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Sayce Holmes-Lewis Founder & CEO
“I find joy and honour in hearing from young people about their progress since leaving Mentivity. Their stories of applying life lessons and advice, and feeling thankful for the safe space and time we've invested, bring me happiness. It's rewarding to impact their journey of self-discovery, clarity, and success.”
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| | Leon WrightCo-Founder & Chief Community Officer
“By providing mentorship that is rooted in our principles, we aspire to contribute to the personal and professional development of individuals, communities, and society at large. Through mentoring, Mentivity aims to be catalysts for a future where every young person has the tools and support needed to achieve their dreams.” |
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| | Tyson Holmes-LewisCo-Founder & Chief Development Officer
“Witnessing how even small gestures can bring positive and lasting change motivates me to continue this work. Environments play a crucial role in youth development, so genuine passion and strong support networks are essential. This work requires continuous education, staying connected to the community, and doing it out of love, while also caring for oneself.” |
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| | Teean Smith-RobinsonChief Impact & Operations Officer
“We engage with a diverse array of young individuals, and witnessing their potential to transform into anything they aspire to be, given the proper support, is truly inspiring. Knowing that we're instrumental in shaping these futures is incredibly motivating.” |
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| | Patrick Egbuchiem Senior Mentor & Safeguarding Lead
“Each one teaches one, and you see how that approach bleeds into communities, shaping positive interactions and traditions going forward. Mentorship, at its key essence, means knowing that there is a bigger picture beyond you, whilst knowing the work you do will enable future communities to thrive.”
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| | Stefano Nelson Senior Mentor
“I approach building trust and rapport with my mentees by being genuinely interested in their lives and their development. I ensure they understand I am never talking down to them. In fact I am also seeking for them to teach me things and have an environment where we can learn from each other. I show them we have a judgement-free space that is open to mistakes being made as long we learn from them.” |
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| | Scott Ellis Senior Mentor
“I believe a mentor must be adaptable, honest, and open. It is key for a mentor to have an understanding that each young person is an individual and to treat all mentees with this in mind. Sometimes it’s good for a mentor to show vulnerability and use examples of experiences they may have had or been around, this provides an understanding and can help with putting the mentee at ease and make them more comfortable.” |
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| | Sasha Miller Mentor
“An effective mentor possesses empathy, patience, a good sense of humour, and is approachable. Great listening skills are essential as this facilitates understanding as well as meeting a young person's need to feel heard. It is also impactful for a mentor to be open and share their own story and learned life lessons.” |
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| | Lawrie Wilson Mentor
“Mentorship is essential for many reasons, but most simply put, it is the practice of giving advice and guidance based on lived experiences - in what world would this not be important? To be super clear, for me, mentorship is important regardless of age and it should never stop.” |
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| | Tyrique Trent Mentor
“Everyone learns and grows differently therefore you cannot always prevent the inevitable. Some honest down-to-earth guidance is what a lot of the younger generation is lacking, someone to tell them the honest repercussions of their actions, someone to not only explain but demonstrate that success is achievable.’’ |
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| Vashti-Iona BeckfordExecutive Assistant
“Working closely with the CEO allows me to witness the bigger picture and understand how decisions are made at the top level. It's interesting to see the strategic planning process firsthand and gain insights into leadership styles.
Being in close proximity allows me to learn from Sayce’s experience, observe the formulation of long-term plans and understand the complexities of running a successful organisation.” |
| Antoinette WrightFinance
“As an Accounts Administrator, my specific financial responsibilities typically include a range of tasks related to the day-to-day financial operations of Mentivity. My main role is to ensure accuracy, compliance, and efficiency in financial processes, contributing to the overall financial health and success of the organisation. Some of my responsibilities are Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable (AR): Payroll Administration, Expense Management, Record Keeping & Reporting.” |
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INVEST IN STUDENTS' SUCCESS. WORK WITH US
| | We are dedicated to empowering students through tailored mentoring programmes.
Our proven approach fosters personal growth, academic excellence, and holistic personal development. |
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| Our process of working with schools begins by thoroughly understanding its unique needs and crafting bespoke programmes that align with the curriculum and the needs of the young people. Collaborative sessions with educators and young people enable us to seamlessly integrate workshops, one-to-one & group mentoring, and tailored activities.
We engage students through our thought-provoking interactive sessions, equipping them with crucial life skills while nurturing resilience. We ensure the heart of our mentoring philosophy fuses well with the school's ethos, championing inclusivity and student well-being. Our commitment to ongoing assessment and feedback guarantees programme effectiveness, allowing us to adapt to the changing needs of schools and young people.
By partnering with us, we enable schools to provide their students with individualised support, cultivating confidence, resilience, and a passion for learning. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future for the leaders of tomorrow. | | | | SPOTLIGHT
Youth Justice Project Manager, Carl Burnett, on fostering change through impactful cases & his inspiring career origins.
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Could you describe a particularly impactful case or success story where your intervention made a positive difference in a young person's life?
In a unique and impactful case, I engaged with a young person whose background differed significantly from the typical demographic involved in street and gang activities. Coming from highly educated and financially secure parents, and having travelled the world, this individual faced unexpected challenges. Establishing trust through several sessions, I uncovered his struggles despite his privileged background.
Despite regular meetings, my extensive youth network provided insights into his activities. The turning point came when his close friend, not associated with gangs, was tragically murdered. Honest conversations about the opportunities his friend would miss out on prompted a profound realisation. Motivated by the injustice and loss, the young person decided to make positive changes in his life.
Recognising the time required for habit alteration, he is currently pursuing studies in cybersecurity, fully engaged in education. This success story underscores the importance of genuine connections, honest conversations, and addressing individual struggles, demonstrating that mentorship can initiate transformative change irrespective of background.
What inspired you to pursue a career in youth justice services, and how did you get started in this field?
My journey into youth justice services began unexpectedly when Tyson Holmes-Lewis, departing to coach soccer in America, tricked me into applying for the position he was leaving at a school. Initially uninterested and uncertain about my ability to guide young individuals, he highlighted my natural skills as a storyteller, humorist, and quick relationship builder – qualities I had taken for granted.
Accepting the challenge, I found myself in a Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) working with one of the most challenging cohorts I have encountered. Although I had never been entangled with the law or in gangs, my keen listening skills became instrumental. I allowed these young people, despite their troubled backgrounds, to offer insights into their lives and environments.
This experience ignited a passion for youth justice services. Witnessing the transformative impact of genuine connections and mentorship on these young lives, I realised the potential for positive change. My genuine belief in change, coupled with a commitment to advocating for and supporting young individuals in navigating challenges, has become the driving force behind my career.
| | | | SPOTLIGHT
Head of Education, Jennifer Holmes, shares insight into the approach that will set our alternative education provision apart from the traditional PRU model.
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Could you share some of the key features or innovative approaches that will set your alternative education provision apart from PRU's?
Above all, in our alternative education provision, we aim to provide a secure and nurturing environment where young people can feel safe, valued, and included. Our holistic approach encompasses formal and informal education, mentoring, life skills, physical and creative activities, digital literacy skills, and alternative qualifications.
Our programme to promote emotional literacy positive well-being and mental health will support our young people in developing self-awareness, good physical and mental health, rational thinking and managing emotions positively.
Development of these skills will empower our young people to advance and thrive, and equip them with the necessary skills to navigate life's challenges and reach their full potential.
What qualities do you believe are essential for a mentor to be effective in supporting young individuals?
My motivation comes from seeing young people achieving their dreams and goals.
This may arise from having someone to support, encourage and believe in them. If just one of our mentors can reach a young person and change their trajectory then we are winning! If we can affect change in just one young mentee, this can bring about effective, positive and long - reaching change for generations to come.
The essentials for a mentor are being able to: - listen actively, be empathetic, believe in the young individual, be consistent, give praise & positive encouragement, help mentees to see their self-worth, have a caring/nurturing nature and to be fair and honest.
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SPOTLIGHT
Community Hub Manager, Sinem Ahmet on healing, community and our plans for the new Hub.
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Why do you feel it is important to integrate holistic wellness practices into the programming and ethos of the Hub?
When seeking help, conventional terms like "counselling" or "therapy" come to mind. These terms can be intimidating so by introducing alternative methods of holistic therapy, we’re encouraging people to explore new pathways, potentially helping them overcome challenges like stress, anxiety, and depression.
Can you delve into the importance of restorative justice?
Restorative justice within our community goes beyond individual practices and delves into the fabric of how we address harm and support each other. While self-care practices like yoga and meditation are crucial for individual well-being, restorative justice offers a unique approach to collectively heal from trauma and rebuild healthy connections.
Not everyone knows where to start with community care and preservation. I hope to bring awareness to the different modalities our community can explore for healing, development, empowerment and holistic wellness, such as; Yoga, meditation and breathwork to name a few.
As you look to the future of the community hub and its role in fostering wellness, what other healing modalities or practices do you envision incorporating?
The Hub is the voice of our community and that voice will be reflected in the services we provide. We’ve kicked off the year strong starting with our steering group. The group is actively seeking effective ways to engage and involve our community. These regular meetings, combined with our consultation, are the foundations on which we are building our service offering. For 2024 the focus is on getting as much information from the community as possible. We’ve received so many suggestions, from healing circles, breathwork sessions, self-development workshops and sound healing, to music therapy, martial arts and nutritional wellness.
| | | PROGRAMME SPOTLIGHT.MENTIVITY x GOLDMAN SACHS RAISING ASPIRATIONS PROJECT |  |
We are thrilled to announce the revitalised chapter of our flagship initiative – The Mentivity x Goldman Sachs Raising Aspirations Project (R.A.P.). A new horizon for youth development.
This ground-breaking project is not just about changing lives; it's about shaping destinies and empowering our young minds to reach heights they never thought possible.
R.A.P. stands as a beacon, guiding young people away from the shadows of school exclusions, crime, and violence. Our approach is comprehensive, touching every aspect of their lives through a blend of aspirational mentoring, coaching, and informal education.
What Sets R.A.P. Apart?
Mentivity's dedicated design working group, comprising seasoned experts and youth-focused professionals, has diligently revamped R.A.P. We've meticulously observed workshops, revamped content, and conducted direct feedback sessions with our youth participants:
1. Holistic Development: Beyond academic realms, R.A.P. nurtures young talents holistically, moulding them into well-rounded individuals primed for success.
2. Visual Pathway: We don't just talk about careers; we create a visual pathway, enabling participants to see and believe in their potential.
3. Diverse Workshops and Activities: Our core workshops and activities are carefully crafted to align with passions and inspire meaningful career and life choices.
Championing Change with Goldman Sachs: A Vision for Diversity and Inclusion
This is one of our proudest collaborations. As partners committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), we're dedicated to reshaping the talent pipeline within Goldman Sachs. Our joint project is a cornerstone in this endeavour.
What's New in R.A.P.?
1. Redesigned Programme: Building on valuable insights and feedback, we've reimagined R.A.P. to enhance effectiveness and relevance.
2. Fresh Resources: New mentoring resources, presentations, and participant workbooks ensure an engaging and impactful learning experience.
3. Comprehensive Support: Our workshops now go beyond academic performance, incorporating crucial life skills, promoting educational attainment, and fostering emotional well-being.
Join us in shaping a future where every young person's aspirations are not just dreams but tangible realities.
Your Support Matters.
For enquiries and partnership opportunities: | | | PROGRAMME SPOTLIGHT.MENTIVITY’S IMPACT ON THE AMANI PROJECT |  |
At Mentivity, our commitment to empowering young individuals has fuelled a remarkable partnership with The Amani Project, a visionary initiative inspired by the CEO, Amani Simpson’s personal journey.
Rooted in Amani's transformative experience of receiving a second chance at age 16, this collaboration with Mentivity was built on the foundation of mentorship, training, and empowerment. We lent our expertise by offering crucial mentoring to the young participants as well as offering empowering mentoring training to the dedicated staff from Hogan Lovells and Goldman Sachs.
By incorporating community insights and tailoring the programme to individual needs, our years-long collaboration has yielded a powerful six-month mentoring programme, designed to empower 16-19 year old Black and Black mixed-race Londoners facing double the unemployment rate of their white counterparts (37.4% unemployed according to a recent investigation).
Central to this initiative is the provision of exclusive access for each mentee to a plethora of resources. They engaged in a series of inspirational workshops, one-to-one mentoring sessions, and networking opportunities. Our goal is clear: to equip these young individuals with the soft skills, confidence, and tools needed for carving out successful lives and careers.
Through our collaboration with The Amani Project, Mentivity has instilled a sense of purpose and capability within each mentee, fostering a future defined by achievement and fulfilment. | | |
EMPOWER CHANGE THROUGH PARTNERSHIP. FUND OUR PROGRAMMES
| | At Mentivity, we believe in the power of collective impact. Your support fuels our transformative programmes, driving positive change in communities and empowering young people. |
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| Your support matters. By partnering with Mentivity, you contribute to:
1. Empowering Youth: Your funding directly translates into life-changing opportunities for young individuals, equipping them with essential skills, mentorship, and guidance to thrive.
2. Community Growth: Investing in Mentivity means investing in the growth and resilience of our communities. Your contributions pave the way for stronger, more cohesive societies.
3. Innovative Solutions: We're committed to pioneering new approaches to education, personal development, and community engagement. Your funding fuels the innovation necessary to create a lasting impact.
Your contribution, no matter the size, fuels our programmes and makes a tangible difference in the lives of young people.
Interested in funding our impactful initiatives: | | |
SPONSORS AND PARTNERS.THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT
| | Last summer, Mentivity partnered with PPL, the music licensing company, to ignite the passions of 16 students at South Bank University Academy.
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| Through a unique seven-week boot camp, PPL offered a deep dive into the exciting world of music – from demystifying song structures to navigating contracts and understanding how artists get paid.
Our collaboration stemmed from our shared commitment to closing the opportunity gap and fostering greater diversity and inclusion within the music industry. Tomi Oyewumi, PPL's Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Partner, championed the initiative, recognising the power of combining our expertise with PPL's industry knowledge.
Throughout the programme, Patrick Egbuchiem, our Senior Mentor & Safeguarding Lead and former music executive, guided the students with engaging workshops and insights. The real magic unfolded in the second half, where PPL volunteers stepped in, each sharing their lived experiences and career journeys within the industry. Beyond dry presentations, these sessions were raw, honest, and deeply impactful, forging genuine connections with the students.
The programmes’ impact was profound. One student, initially hesitant, blossomed into a passionate music production enthusiast by the end. Witnessing such transformations is the essence of what we do at Mentivity.
The positive feedback fueled our commitment to expand the programme. PPL is opening its doors for student visits, offering mentorship opportunities, and exploring avenues for valuable work experience. As Tomi says, "It's crucial for PPL to embody the change we advocate for." This collaboration is just the beginning of our journey towards building a more inclusive and accessible music industry, one empowered student at a time.
| | | We're honoured to have been one of 12 organisations selected for a grant from Laureus Sport For Good and the Foot Locker Foundation Community Empowerment Programme. |
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| Looking back on our journey since October 2023, we're proud to share the impact of The 14-week EmpowerMENT Programme.
This initiative focused on education, sports, and wellness, has positively influenced 100 young minds from two Brixton schools.
Through essential sporting experiences, life-skills development, and mindfulness opportunities, our dedicated team from Sayaw led workshops and activities.
One-to-one mentoring sessions and impactful days with Spotify further enriched the experience.
Our collaboration has transcended the classroom, making a lasting impression on our community.
Stay tuned for updates on our joint ongoing efforts to empower the next generation.
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We're raising £25,000 to run a programme of activities at the Mentivity Community Hub. We have seen numerous community centres, youth clubs and spaces for our community close down over the last ten years in Southwark, leaving thousands of young people and adults with nowhere to go and nowhere to truly call their own.
We’re going to change that with the Mentivity Community Hub... But we need your support.
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Feedback or suggestions? Email info@mentivity.com
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