Pathways to Resilience IV: Global South Perspectives

Support and Mentorship

Abstract #57
Title: Role of mentorship in promoting resilience among adolescents in the informal settlements of Kibera: A case study of Uweza Foundation
Presenter: Lucy Auma Osulah (Daystar University, Kenya)
Co-Authors: Scholastica Njeri Kariuki-Githinji, Roseline Olumbe
Introduction: Mentoring is a long standing form of intervention for supporting personal growth and development in adolescents. Social learning Theory and Resilience based models provide a positive framework for mentors to build strength and responsibility in adolescents, whose lives have been shaped by risk factors in the informal settlements.
Methods: In a descriptive survey design, data was collected using structured questionnaire, interview guide and focus group discussion guide adapted from Child and Youth Resilience Measure (CYRM-12). The respondents included 90 adolescents of age 11-19 years enrolled in Uweza Foundation and 3 adult workers who facilitate mentorship activities in Uweza Foundation. Exploratory method was used to summarize the findings.
Findings: Mentorship relationship, parent support, peer support and individual personality are the strongest protective factors which foster resilience among adolescents in Uweza Foundation. Mentorship is a supporting function enabling adolescents to engage in  meaningful activities, maintain positive relationship with peers and significant adults, and develop prosocial behavior.

Abstract #18
Title: The Role of Peer Mentoring and Peer Support in Building Resilience with Young People
Presenter: Nick Barnes (Barnet Enfield and Haringey Mental health Trust, UK)
Co-Author: Simon Munk
Introduction: With rising awareness of the mental health needs of young people, an earlier and more preventative approach will be required to address these needs. Peer mentoring can significantly reduce the development of these needs and promote emotional resilience in “at risk young people”, with positive outcomes for mentors and mentees.
Methods: Presentation of two approaches to peer mentoring and support. Time 2 Talk, winner of the 2015 Health Service Journal Award for Innovation in Mental Award, is a “whole school approach” to addressing mental health stigma and emotional wellbeing that works through drama, film and the PHSE curriculum as well as utilising peer mentoring within the school. The second, More than Mentors, sort to co-design and co-create a clear, evidence based approach to peer mentoring -seeking to build emotional resilience for both mentor and mentee through a 10-week intervention that has been tested in school and community settings.
Findings: Initial results for More than Mentors show an impressive impact on resilience of mentees (SRS) although further testing in wider settings is required.  However, implications for building resilience of young people, preventing mental health need and diminishing risk of exclusion will have significant impact on community development and cohesion