Big Brothers Big Sisters South Africa (BBBSSA) is a non-profit initiative that provides a framework for contemporary mentorship in South Africa. The concept and practice of mentoring is age-old. It is a tried and proven system where an older role model provides a younger counterpart with guidance, care and support over time, and so assists them in maximising their potential.

 

By spending an hour a week with a youth-in-need (Littles), adult volunteers (Bigs) provide positive role models and life experiences that help build personal values such as self-esteem, self-respect and respect for others. Whilst the relationship may only last a year, the effects typically last a lifetime.

 

Internationally results of the programme indicate that youth matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister are: 52% more likely to stay in school, 46% less likely to use drugs, and 32% less likely to engage in violence. Youths with mentors also showed an increase in self-confidence, self-worth, the ability to trust, and make better decisions and choices.

 

"Bigs" are recruited, screened and trained to ensure they have the capacity to sustain a positive and natural relationship with their "Little" and the BBBSSA training programme is widely commended as a comprehensive preparatory training for the role of mentor. The programme as a whole is applauded for its goal-orientation and scientific approach to matching - Bigs are matched to a specific Little according to the actual needs of the youth and the strengths of the volunteer.

 

Overall the Big Brothers Big Sisters initiative represents an attempt to restore a positive life vision and assist youths in making constructive life choices by providing an inspirational role model. As former US President Bill Clinton stated, "people who grow up in difficult circumstances and yet are successful have one thing in common. … at a critical junction in their early adolescence they had a positive relationship with a caring adult."

 

For information on becoming a 'Big' and/or the Big Brothers Big Sisters Programme contact or 447 2471.