INTENSIVE MENTORING

PROGRAMS

Our one-on-one mentoring program provides intensive, personalised support for young people who are at risk of entering the justice system—or already involved in it. This isn’t light-touch engagement. It’s structured, relational, and built to strengthen identity, resilience, and real-world decision-making through consistent, high-trust mentoring.

The program is underpinned by leading desistance and motivational theories and shaped by young mentors with lived experience of both youth and adult justice systems. They bring real insight into the choices, patterns, and pressures young people face—and walk alongside them with the credibility that only lived experience can offer.

Our Mentoring Model

Our model for identity transformation offers a unique pathway for individuals seeking purposeful change and growth. Developed through evidence-informed practices, it emphasises both mindset shifts and self-determination as foundational pillars.

Our approach fosters a supportive, open environment where individuals can gain new perspectives, build meaningful connections, and recognise the transferable skills they already possess. By setting purposeful goals and cultivating sustainable life structures, our model guides personal growth that lasts.

Rooted in practical application and ongoing refinement, this model remains a dynamic part of our work, designed to create genuine opportunities for self-directed, positive change.

Our mentors are carefully matched with mentees based on shared experiences and identity, ensuring a strong, authentic connection. As part of our mentoring model, mentees also have access to our professional network and may explore entrepreneurial opportunities or internships, aligning with their personal aspirations.

What does it look like?

Our one-on-one intensive mentoring provides personalised, targeted support for young people facing complex social challenges. Each young person is matched with a mentor who has relevant lived experience, ensuring a deep understanding and connection.

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Strategic Themes Covered

Our approach adapts to the mentee's pace, with ongoing collaboration between 16 Yards, the young person’s care team, and other involved professionals. Together, we work to provide a holistic and impactful mentoring experience.

Wrap-Around Strategic Support

At 16 Yards, we believe that effective mentoring is a team effort. Our mentors receive ongoing support and supervision from our leadership team, including Shayne Hood and Dr. Stephane Shepherd. This wrap-around strategic support ensures that mentoring plans are continuously adapted to meet the evolving needs of each young person.

Through regular team meetings, feedback sessions, and the provision of additional resources, our mentoring programs are strengthened by a collaborative approach. This allows us to remain flexible, responsive, and aligned with the best outcomes for each participant, whether in one-on-one mentoring or group settings.