OUR PROGRAM

Mentoring that makes a real difference

At Wheatbelt & Beyond Youth Mentoring (WBYM), we believe every young person deserves to feel supported, encouraged, and confident about their future, no matter where they live.

Our program matches participating secondary students with adult mentors from outside their community.

Our program is simple, flexible, all inclusive and proven to help young people in rural and remote WA feel more confident, resilient, and hopeful about their future.

How Our Program Works

WBYM sources adult mentors from outside the local community

Volunteer adult mentors are sourced by WBYM from outside of the students’ local community to give them a broader view of the world. Mentors receive full training, ongoing check-ins, and access to 24/7 support, so they feel confident and equipped to support their mentee.

Mentors are matched with a student

Mentors are allocated to a participating program where they are matched to a mentee with similar hobbies or interests where possible, helping to create strong, meaningful connections.

Mentors and mentees communicate via email

Mentors and mentees connect mainly by email with options for phone, text, FaceTime, or video calls (with parent permission). Mentees are able to share goals, discuss challenges and talk about what’s happening in their lives, ensuring they have support when they need it the most.

Flexible Communication options

The program is primarily online, providing flexibility for both mentees and mentors. Regular emails facilitate easy communication and fit into busy schedules. With parent permission, mentors and mentees can also communicate via phone call, text, Facetime and in person.

Occasional event opportunities

There are also opportunities to meet at face-to-face events throughout the year. These fun gatherings allow young people to get to know their mentors better. For mentors, it’s a chance to meet other mentors and experience life in a rural area.

Why it Works

Flexible delivery that fits the needs of each young person and community.
An online model designed to overcome geographical barriers and connect young people beyond their community.
Carefully screened and matched mentors who build genuine, consistent relationships.
A safe and proven approach designed specifically for country young people.
Low-cost for participants that helps remove financial barriers.
Ongoing support from the WBYM team every step of the way.

More than Mentoring

We are committed to creating opportunities for country young people to build confidence, broaden their experiences, discover their strengths and connect with people and possibilities beyond their everyday lives. That’s why our program is about more than just mentoring.

From camps and leadership opportunities to the Duke of Ed, each part of our program is designed to complement mentoring and give young people more opportunities to explore, grow, connect and discover what they’re capable of.

WBYM Camp

Our annual camp brings country young people together for a few days of connection, adventure, challenge and fun, giving mentees opportunities they may not otherwise have access to.

Careers Expo

As part of our camp experience, our Careers Expo gives country young people the opportunity to explore what comes next, with pathways and opportunities within their community and beyond.

Student Leadership Team

Our Student Leadership Team gives young people the opportunity to develop their leadership skills, have a voice in shaping the future and see the difference they can make, both locally and beyond.

Duke of Ed

As an Open Award Centre for The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, WBYM gives young people the opportunity to try new things, build skills, take on challenges and discover what they’re capable of.

Why Mentoring Matters

Growing up in regional WA is full of opportunities, but it can also mean isolation, limited resources, and fewer role models. By bridging the gap between city and country, WBYM helps young people see what’s possible for their future, while giving them someone in their corner today.

Distance shouldn’t define opportunity.

Our remote-first model ensures every young person, no matter where they live, can access mentoring that changes lives.

Learn more about why mentoring matters

Backed by Experience, Built on Trust

WBYM has supported over 500 mentees since 2011, with a model developed and refined alongside schools, families, and communities. The result is a mentoring program that’s flexible, safe, and deeply effective.