[The programme] has taught me lots about myself. I have been more mature and know what to do in certain situations which I did not know before.
Power2 Thrive is our 16-week programme for children and young people who are struggling with their mental health and wellbeing. Secondary school-aged students get the opportunity to take time out of their regular school routine to become mentors and role models to children in a local nursery – creating a space where both the older and younger children can learn, grow and be inspired by each other.
Leila often became angry when distracted by her classmates which lead to disagreements where she would respond by shouting. Arguing in class would frequently land her in trouble with her teachers.
When Leila joined Power2 Thrive, her Programme Lead Kerry helped her to identify healthy ways to manage her emotions. Together, they discovered that mindful colouring was especially effective for Leila. Focusing on the different colours and the act of colouring itself helped to calm her down and reduce her feelings of anger.
Kerry also encouraged Leila to take breaks when feeling overwhelmed, whether that meant stepping outside for a short walk or simply pausing to breathe so that she could return to a situation with a clearer mind.
The most helpful session was on coping strategies. It taught me what I needed to do and what not to do. The things that were mentioned in the session I hadn’t thought of to calm myself down.
Leila supported her mentee’s development with patience and care, guiding them to follow simple instructions and strengthen their language skills. She helped her mentee to come out of their shell.
Working with her mentee helped Leila realise how much she was learning, too.
“[The programme] has taught me lots about myself. My favourite thing is interacting and playing games with the children. I have been more mature and know what to do in certain situations which I did not know before,” said Leila.
Leila’s confidence grew not only with the children but also with her peers. Kerry said, “It was great to see Leila being confident and giving her ideas within group discussions, while allowing others to have their say and responding to them in a respectful way even if their opinions differed from hers.”
Power2 Thrive gave Leila the tools to manage her anger, communicate more positively with others and become more engaged in school. Her school noticed a real change in her behaviour, with her records from last year compared to this year showing significant improvement.
The relationship she built with her mentee helped her to not only become more patient but also to believe in her own strengths and potential.
I can finally control my anger and not hurt other people’s feelings. It’s easier to actually be in a lesson and get my work done. I am doing better and my teachers have noticed it too.
