Special Monthly Feature: January

New York, N.Y. — Every January, the world turns its attention to a powerful force for good: mentoring. National Mentoring Month, celebrated annually in the United States and recognized globally, is a time to honor the transformative impact of mentors and encourage more people to step into these vital roles.

Established in 2002 by the National Mentoring Partnership (MENTOR) and championed by leaders like former President Barack Obama, this month-long initiative highlights why mentoring matters now more than ever—especially in shaping educated, wide-ranging, and compassionate young leaders who will guide humanity’s future.

Mentoring matters now more than ever—
especially in shaping educated, wide-ranging,
and compassionate young leaders who
will guide humanity’s future.

Mentoring is more than just advice-giving, it’s a relationship built on trust, guidance, and mutual growth.

Whether it’s a teacher encouraging a student to pursue their dreams, a professional guiding a young colleague through career challenges, or a community leader inspiring a teen to think globally, mentors provide the tools and perspectives young people need to thrive.

In a world facing complex issues—climate change, social inequality, technological disruption—the need for thoughtful, empathetic leadership has never been greater. Mentoring bridges the gap between potential and action, helping youth become the problem-solvers of tomorrow.

National Mentoring Month isn’t just a celebration; it’s a call to action.

Organizations like MENTOR and Big Brothers Big Sisters use this time to recruit volunteers, host events, and share success stories that inspire. Take, for example, the story of Aisha, a 16-year-old from Chicago who credits her mentor with helping her navigate high school and secure a college scholarship.

“She saw something in me I didn’t see in myself,” Aisha says. “Now I want to study international relations and make a difference.” Stories like hers show how mentoring plants seeds for global impact.

Why is mentoring so crucial? Research backs up its power.

According to a 2019 study by MENTOR, young people with mentors are 55% more likely to enroll in college, 78% more likely to volunteer regularly, and 130% more likely to hold leadership positions. These aren’t just numbers—they’re proof that mentoring builds confidence, broadens horizons, and fosters a sense of responsibility.

For young leaders, this means developing not just skills, but also the compassion and vision to tackle global challenges with humanity in mind.

The theme of developing young global leadership resonates deeply in today’s interconnected world.

Mentors expose youth to diverse perspectives, encouraging them to think beyond their immediate surroundings. A mentor might introduce a student to sustainability practices, sparking a passion for environmental justice, or share lessons from their own career, igniting an interest in diplomacy or innovation. By offering wisdom and support, mentors help young people see themselves as part of a larger tapestry—one where their actions can ripple across borders.

This January, National Mentoring Month events are amplifying this message.

Virtual workshops, storytelling campaigns, and mentor recruitment drives are making it easier than ever to get involved. Organizations are also emphasizing inclusivity, ensuring that mentoring reaches underserved communities where its impact can be most profound. “Mentoring isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity,” says David Shapiro, C.E.O. of MENTOR. “It’s about giving every young person the chance to lead with purpose.”

The benefits extend beyond the mentee.

Mentors often report a renewed sense of purpose and connection. John, a software engineer who mentors teens in coding, says, “Teaching them teaches me patience and perspective. It’s a two-way street.” This mutual growth strengthens communities and builds a culture of giving back—key ingredients for a hopeful future.

As we celebrate National Mentoring Month in 2025, the focus on young global leadership feels especially urgent.

With the world at a crossroads, mentors are helping shape a generation that’s educated, expansive in its thinking, and deeply compassionate. Whether through formal programs or informal relationships, mentoring lights the way for youth to become the ethical, innovative leaders humanity needs. So this month, consider the question: How can you be a mentor? The answer could change a life—and the world.

National Mentoring Month Spotlights Young Global Leadership (Jan. 2, 2025)

#NationalMentoringMonth #MentoringMatters
#YoungLeaders #GlobalLeadership #MentorInspire

Tags: mentoring, National Mentoring Month, youth leadership,
global leaders, education, compassion, future leaders

This National Mentoring Month, take the first step to shape the future—become a mentor!

Whether you share your skills, time, or encouragement, you can help a young person become a compassionate, global leader.

Visit MENTOR’s website to find opportunities near you or start a conversation with a young person in your community.

Your guidance could change a life and inspire a better world—get started today!”