On 7 January 2026, Afghan children took part in a special mentoring event at the Volunteer Centre Office, organised by MAPS Mentoring in partnership with the Afghan Project. The session offered a fun, relaxed environment where children could learn, connect and enjoy a truly memorable experience. 

The event welcomed Pets on the Green, who brought along a fascinating variety of animals for the children to meet, pet and learn about. As part of the session, the children discovered what the animals eat, how long they live for and how to care for them, while gaining confidence through hands-on interaction. 

Animals included sugar gliders (A small nocturnal marsupial from Australia), a bearded dragon, a tortoise, rabbits, an African pygmy hedgehog and even a bullfrog. One of the highlights was Rosie the parrot, who happily ate sunflower seeds while sitting with the children, and Gary the bald guinea pig, who quickly became a favourite. The children also enjoyed feeding the rabbits cucumber and gently handling the smaller animals under supervision. 

Nine Afghan children attended the session, alongside staff members and the Pets on the Green team. The event provided a safe and welcoming space for learning, curiosity and positive social interaction, reinforcing the importance of mentoring activities that build confidence and wellbeing. 

Events like this show how creative, engaging mentoring sessions can help children feel supported, relaxed and valued while creating joyful shared experiences.