MAPS Mentoring with young people from Ukraine.
For 30 years, MAPS Mentoring has been helping young people grow in confidence, achieve their goals and feel supported as they navigate some of life’s tough challenges.
Our MAPS Mentoring Programme for Young People from Ukraine was set up in 2023 to offer vital support to young Ukrainians as they settle into their new lives here in Sutton.
This is OE’s mentoring story ….
Meet OE, a bright, enthusiastic 10-year-old boy from Ukraine, currently taking part in our MAPS Mentoring Programme. Last year, he was matched with a male mentor through the programme. Their connection grew into a trusted and encouraging relationship.
Starting over in a new country can be overwhelming, especially as a child. OE struggled to find his confidence, identity, and voice. With the help of his mentor, things started to change. We noticed that he had more of a sense of belonging and was starting to believe in his dreams.
During one of their regular meetups, OE shared something that lit up the conversation: he had always dreamed of becoming a police officer. His mentor saw the spark in his eyes and wanted to do more than just talk about it, he wanted to help bring the experience to life:
“As soon as OE mentioned his ambition, I spoke to our Practitioner to see what we could arrange, I thought maybe a short visit or a chat with an officer, but what MAPS and Sutton Police managed to arrange went far beyond that”.
OE was welcomed with his mentor for a special visit to Sutton police station. From the moment he walked through the doors, it was clear this would be something he wouldn’t forget. He toured the station and visited the evidence and camera rooms where he excitedly pointed out “I can see the whole of Sutton!”
Whilst he sat inside a police van and tried on parts of the police uniform, he asked thoughtful questions about the role. Throughout the visit OE had a huge smile on his face. He said “It was really fun and interesting! I really enjoyed being inside the police car, thank you so much!”
The impact of his experience was clear “When my son came home, his eyes were shining,” his mum said. “He was so full of joy. He told me straight away that he wants to be a police officer – but first, he wants to become a cadet. Thank you for making this happen.”
His mentor added: “The police officer went above and beyond, he took the time to show OE around, let him try on kit, and made him feel valued. The smile OE had on the way home is something I’ll never forget. I hope this is a memory he’ll carry with him into his future.”
OE’s mentoring journey not only offered support and connection at a critical time but opened doors showing him that his dreams do matter. Mentoring really does help young people feel seen and heard and motivates them to take the next step toward their future.
