YPARD is running a number of different mentoring initatives that foster intergenerational learning in agriculture. Read about them at http://ypard.net/mentoring
We are always looking for great people to serve as mentors in our programs.
Benefits you will receive as a mentor:
Mentoring is a responsibility that requires time and dedication, but also yields a wealth of rewards. Not only will you directly contribute to the development of young professionals in agriculture for rural development but you will also:
- Deepen your understanding of youth issues in agriculture
- Enhance your mentoring, listening, role modelling and online technology skills through formal and informal training opportunities
- Build networks with leading young agricultural professionals
- Be exposed to new ideas from young professionals
- Develop and practice a more personal leadership style
“I got a chance to put into practice my leadership style of taking the backward seat and let the mentee lead the way, I felt more in control of myself in regards to getting more patient, more interested to see how my mentee would make decisions and this helped me to become a good listener. I come to realize the power of being a listener, instead of the usual ‘teacher-student’ attitude which most people adopt without much reflection on its impacts to both mentor and mentee.” YPARD Mentor
Can I really make a difference in one person’s life as their YPARD mentor?
Yes! Otim Joseph was only 2 years old when the Lord’s Resistance Army insurgency began to decimate Uganda’s forests and farms. Twenty years later, Otim decided he could empower young people and make a difference but didn’t know how. With the help of his mentor, he has completed a university diploma and developed an internship program to give 30 young Ugandans training in natural resource management.
Can my mentee make a difference in my life?
Yes! Cathy Watson, a social entrepreneur and journalist said: “Mentorship is not patronizing. With me and Otim, the relationship is increasing equal. I ask his advice. A lot of what I know about trees and culture in northern Uganda, I owe to Otim.”
How much of a time commitment is it?
What qualities do we look for in our mentors?
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Able to ask key questions to support your mentee to develop their problem solving and creative thinking skills, and to be resilient and independent.
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Able to establish clear expectations and commitments and express your expectations and commitments to your mentee, and to ask for the same.
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Committed to your mentee’s learning and project goals.
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Able to provide positive feedback, encouragement and advice when requested.
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Interested in seeing your mentee’s growth and success in their work or studies.
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Generous with tools and approaches that support others to learn.
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Willing to share key contacts and networks with your mentee, and to source other areas of expertise when required.
For more information or to express your interest in becoming a mentor, contact YPARD’s mentoring coordinator michelle.kovacevic@ypard.net