Tuesday, 9 May 2017

Jonathan Sdao: Why Mentoring Disadvantaged Youth is Important

An active young man with dreams of establishing a successful career in the financial services sector, Jonathan Sdao has worked hard to broaden his interests. During his time at Colby College, he regularly volunteered to help mentor disadvantaged youth in the community through the Team IMPACT program.


Disadvantaged young people in the community are an isolated group, often without the supportive relationships with families, schools, and the society that are essential to proper growth. The lack of these relationships can lead to poor socialization habits that impact educational success. Thus, the need for mentoring programs where these young people can be linked with individuals who are more experienced and older.

Mentors who choose to engage with young individuals have to be aware of the socialization deficiencies and aim to provide psychological support to develop new behavior. A mentor has to show the other party that opportunities exist to excel in work, social life, and education. In doing so, the instructor is helping build self-esteem and confidence that is necessary for growth and development.


As a mentor, your role is crucial in helping a disadvantaged young person go through a challenging time in their life or deal with stressful changes that are inevitable with the transition to young adulthood. Fostering a close, supportive relationship is crucial to success, and can lead to lifelong friendship bonds between the mentor and mentee.


Jonathan Sdao is an active community service participant, having worked with various organizations to raise funds and reach out to disadvantaged groups in the community. 

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