FOR PARENTS

Supporting you, supporting your teen. 

Raising teenagers is never easy, and for young people growing up in regional and rural WA, distance and isolation can sometimes make navigating the teenage years more challenging. WBYM connects country students with trusted adult mentors who bring fresh perspectives, encouragement and new opportunities beyond their immediate community.

As a parent or carer, you’re an important part of your young person’s support network. WBYM is here to be another part of their village — providing a safe and supportive space where they can explore their interests, build confidence, work towards their goals and have someone in their corner.

 FAQs for parents

  • Our mentors are from an array of diverse backgrounds and ages. We have many tertiary students who are currently navigating life beyond high school, able to share their knowledge of this transition. Many of our mentors are also from rural backgrounds, able to draw on their own experience when providing mentorship to their students. Mentors of all ages, cultures, backgrounds and experiences provide effective support for our students.

  • Mentors serve as a confidant, supporting mentees through the difficult transition from adolescence to adulthood. WBYM facilitates the space for students to share recent happenings, challenges, triumphs and aspirations with their mentors, who can provide nurture and guidance on how to navigate these experiences.

  • Mentors are thoroughly screened upon application, and complete our in-house training which covers elements such as mental health, confidentiality, and the support services available to assist mentees in certain situations.

  • Mentors are sourced externally to the local community, allowing for broad skill sets and life experiences, beyond the mentee’s home town.

  • Students and mentors communicate through email once per week. Your child will be given class time at school to email their mentor. Students are able to catch up with their mentor at events such as our annual WBYM Camp, some school sporting carnivals, or externally to the program, given parent permission. Students can also use alternative forms of communication such as phone and video call, with your permission. This permission is initially provided through the parent permission slip or in writing to your school to change permissions. The school will pass on the details to your child’s mentor.

  • You can reach a member of our team by emailing us at

    info@wbym.com.au