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 students in Years 7–12 from participating schools with adult mentors from outside their community.

Our program is simple, flexible, 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 school where they are matched to a student 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 during the school week, with options for phone, text, FaceTime, or video calls (with parent approval). Students 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 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 video conference.

Occasional event opportunities

There are also opportunities to meet at face-to-face events throughout the year. These fun gatherings allow students 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 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.

Why it Works for Schools

Minimal disruption to the school day

No travel or extra resources required

A proven structure that is safe, simple, and effective

Ongoing support from the WBYM team to keep things running smoothly

Built by a team with over 20+ years of experience working in country schools, our program is easily integrated into any school.

We understand from first-hand experience the workload of our country teachers, and so, we have designed a program that requires minimal staff effort for maximal reward for the students.

Backed by Experience, Built on Trust

WBYM has supported over 500 students 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.