Hey Youth — this is for you!

UNYA’s Kinnections Mentoring Program matches Indigenous youth ages 16 to 19 with trained volunteer mentors. If you are looking for mentorship opportunities for Indigenous youth ages 12 to 15, please navigate to the Mentorship Program on our main Programs page, Hey Youth — This Is for You!

Looking for guidance, support, or just someone who’s there for you? UNYA’s Mentorship Program (ages 12–15) and Kinnections Program (ages 16–18) connect Indigenous youth with supportive, non-judgmental mentors.

You’ll spend 2–4 hours each week with your mentor for at least one year—doing activities you choose, like sports, arts, culture, or just hanging out. Your mentor can also help with things like job or apartment searches, budgeting, and accessing training or community resources. Plus, you’ll get to join staff-led group outings like canoeing, cooking, or snowshoeing.

It’s all about having someone in your corner—listening, guiding, and supporting you – and having fun along the way.

What you’ll get

• A caring, consistent mentor (role model, advocate, and friend)
• 2–4 hours together weekly for at least one year
• Activities you choose: arts & culture, sports, recreation, tutoring, drop-ins
• Staff-led group outings (canoeing, snowshoeing, cooking)
• Donated tickets to movies, aquarium, hockey, and more
• Ongoing support and advocacy from UNYA staff

What you’ll get

• A supportive, non-judgmental adult mentor
• 2–4 hours together weekly for at least one year
• Activities you choose: sports, arts & culture, social outings, education
• Support with job/apartment searches, budgeting, and training
• Help navigating community resources
• Staff-led group activities (canoeing, cooking, snowshoeing, and more)
• Ongoing advocacy and support from Kinnections staff