As part of the Mentoring and Tutoring Education Scheme (MATES), Ma'ukakala, the MATES Coordinator, shares how the programme nurtures youth development and builds meaningful connections that positively impact young lives every day.

“As a coordinator for the MATES programme, I work closely with Henderson High School, Mangere College, and Henderson Intermediate School. My primary responsibilities include supervising sessions and supporting mentors to ensure they can do their best for their mentees.

My journey with MATES began last year through their partnership with the University of Auckland’s Stage 2 Education paper, Youth Mentoring. I was excited to find a course that had both theoretical and practical opportunities. Now, as a coordinator, it has been amazing to work more closely with MATES and contribute in a more impactful way.

A typical week as a MATES coordinator involves daily check-ins to review tasks, connecting with the mentors at my schools, and preparing resources that focus on essential life skills such as confidence building, CV planning, interview preparation, and university readiness. 

During our sessions, we begin with an icebreaker, followed by 70 minutes of academic tutoring and mentoring. After the session, I debrief with the mentors to address any reminders or issues that came up and then wrap up my day by preparing my mentors for the following week's session.

One of my biggest wins this year has been the high levels of engagement from mentees at Henderson Intermediate School. Their excitement as they walk through the doors is always encouraging.

A memorable moment at Henderson Intermediate was at the end of the first session when we planned to pair the mentees with mentors. When I asked the mentees if they had anyone specific in mind as their mentor, nearly half the group already had someone in mind. Their enthusiasm and eagerness to connect with someone they had just met was truly special.

What I love most about my role is witnessing the evolving connections between mentees and mentors. Watching these relationships grow, from initial awkward encounters to effortless conversations, is the best part of my job. Seeing the mentees’ academic and self-esteem growth over time, especially those who started as very shy and have now opened to their mentors and the whole group, is incredibly rewarding. 

I am so grateful for the opportunity to contribute more of myself to the MATES programme. The safe and collaborative space created by the MATES team has made my experience as a coordinator even more fulfilling. I would highly recommend anyone who loves helping young people to consider getting involved with MATES.”