Insights from actions: Mentors as running mates for changemakers

Mentorship that builds civic and climate leadership
At Reap Benefit, we’ve been learning from the ground-up; from young people who are solving real problems in their communities. In our recent deep dive into mentorship models, we explored what truly supports youth-led action in civic and climate spaces.

Here are key insights from our journey:

  • 91% of youth value mentors who walk alongside, not instruct. Reflective, relational mentorship helps them think for themselves and build confidence.
  • Problem-solving is a pathway to agency. Young people don’t just want answers, they want to figure things out, contextual to their realities.
  • Mentees become mentors. Around 30% of 1:1 mentoring conversations are now youth-led. Peer mentoring is fueling a leadership flywheel.
  • Digital tools can scale, but depth matters. While thousands engaged online, sustained action came from relationships rooted in trust and presence.
  • Family and community support multiplies impact. Youth with strong ecosystem backing showed higher consistency in civic engagement.
  • Mentorship strengthens climate readiness. When framed around reflection, it builds resilience, not just awareness.
  • We need more ‘running mates’, not advisors. Mentors who co-reflect, co-problem solve, and co-learn with youth are unlocking meaningful action.
  • Youth want ownership. They are not just seeking change, they are becoming the change, and want spaces to lead.

These insights reaffirm that youth-centered, action-based mentorship is not just a support function, it’s a powerful strategy for long-term civic and climate resilience.