“She Turned Up Every Week, and That’s What Matters”

As a student at Academy 360 in Sunderland, Angel was matched with her mentor, Diane, through MCR Pathways. Looking back on the experience, it isn’t one particular conversation she remembers most.

It’s the fact that Diane kept showing up. Week after week.

In a world where young people often face uncertainty, having one person who makes a commitment and sticks to it can be transformative. Not because they solve every problem, but because their presence sends a powerful message.

For Angel, mentoring became a space where she felt listened to, supported and encouraged. The relationship wasn’t built through life-changing moments, but through regular ones: a conversation, a check-in, a game of Monopoly.

Who won didn’t matter. What mattered was that Angel knew someone would be there every Wednesday to talk about what mattered most.

Watch Angel’s video below

Until everyone has someone.

Across Sunderland, MCR Pathways volunteer mentors, like Diane, are making that same commitment to young people every week. They are proving that sometimes the most meaningful thing an adult can offer isn’t expertise or advice. It’s consistency.

Sometimes, consistency is more powerful than words. Angel’s story reminds us that changing a young person’s future doesn’t always start with a grand gesture. Sometimes, it starts with simply turning up.

Watch Diane’s video below

Could you give just an hour to guide a local young person on their path to a positive future at Academy 360?

Right now, there is an urgent need for volunteer mentors to step forward across the North East of England. Having just one person who shows up, listens, and believes in them can prove truly transformational for a local young person.

You don’t need special qualifications to make a massive impact – your unique life experience, a proactive attitude, and a willingness to listen are exactly what a young person needs to thrive. 

Mia Littlewood is our Pathways Coordinator, based at Academy 360.

Watch Mia’s video below.

By sharing just one hour a week, you can help shape a bright, positive future in your community.

For further information, please visit: https://mcrpathways.org/become-a-mentor/