Big Boetas

What is Big Boetas?

Big Boetas is a mentoring programme for men in which approachable and sensible adult males commit to spend regular structured time with young men.

What is mentoring?

Mentoring is a relationship in which the mentor (Big Boeta) facilitates a process in which young males can grow and discover themselves. The two parties commit to see each other on a regular basis (weekly for one hour) over a minimum period of one year. It is a planned, structured and goal directed process.

The role of the Mentor

v The most important role of the mentor is that of inspirer and motivator so that the young man can reach his own potential in life.

v To be available and present with the young man. In other words to pay attention to the young man. To notice him and to acknowledge him as a person.

v To get to know the young man. To try to understand him personally, socially, culturally and within his immediate social and community context.

v To assist  the young man in discovering himself, making his own decisions and learning from his own mistakes

v To be an encouraging influence in the life of the young man through acknowledgement, praise and constructive feedback, and through setting a good example and being a force of inspiration and positive role model

v To provide containment and boundary setting for the young man

What mentoring is not

• Mentoring is not preaching, lecturing or instructing
• It is not a buddy buddy relationship either
• It is not the mere exchange of words. The young man may benefit more from seeing the mentor in action.
• It is not about being the savior of the young man
• It is not surrogate parenthood. The mentor do not replace the parent

The qualities of a Big Boeta

• A good role model. An example to developing young men.
• A positive, encouraging and
• inspirational personality
• Enjoys the company of youth
• Warm and approachable
• A moral, honest person
• Sensitive and kind
• Good communication skills

Big Boeta duties and responsibilities

• Meet with young man for one hour per week
• Maintain records of attendance and process of meetings
• Attend monthly get togethers with other Big Boetas for mentor support and training

What else are expected of Big Boetas?

To increase their knowledge of life skills including communication, problem solving and counselling skills

To increase their knowledge of people and the various developmental stages people go through. This would foster the mentor’s appreciation of the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual world of young men

To sustain their own physical, emotional and social health

Why should I volunteer as a Big Boeta?

• You will receive ongoing mentor training, development & support
• You will learn about young men
• You will grow as a person
• You will experience the satisfaction that comes from giving something back to the community
• You will make a difference to someone else's life
• But most of all you will help to reduce the school drop out rate, drug addiction, violence and other social problems frequently experienced by young men

If you would like to undergo screening to be accepted as a Big Boeta please contact Life Mentoring Consultancy on:

082 873 5475
(021) 762 7377
info@lmconsulting.co.za

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