1MM aims to train, recruit and connect a million mentors to a million young people across the UK, in order to increase youth employability, support social action and help break down social barriers.
Spirit’s investment will allow 1MM to take a big step up to over 4,000 mentees, and will see a significant investment in Wales (Cardiff) as well as cross-working with other Spirit projects including Breaking Boundaries in Birmingham, Manchester and London.
“I have personally mentored a number of youngsters over the years with the One Million Mentor team and I’m glad our support will enable them to multiply their impact for young people,” says Vikash Gupta, Spirit of 2012 Board member.
“Mentoring can inspire young people to dream big, take risks and give back to society,” he says. “Facilitating and investing in the goodwill of professionals also means 1MM can address the skills gap and enable social cohesion. We’re really excited to support this innovative initiative and be part of its success.”
1MM is a project within Uprising, a UK-wide youth leadership development organisation. Alveena Malik is Co-founder and Director of 1MM.
“We are thrilled to have the continued support of our founding funder Spirit 2012.
1MM is a pioneering approach, using the advantages of technology, in order to transform the process of mentoring for all. Our aim is to provide opportunities and a safe space for the mentor-mentee to widen their horizons, help break down social barriers, and develop mutual respect and understanding between people of different backgrounds.”
1MM is currently operating in the West Midlands and Greater Manchester, with the West Midlands Metro Mayor Andy Street being an early advocate of the programme.
Andy said: “1MM has been a key part of the success of the Mayor’s Mentors scheme which has established more than 1,000 mentoring relationships in the first year.
“I know from my own career just how important having a mentor is and am very grateful for the support from Spirit of 2012.”
Futher Information