There’s a special kind of magic in showing up.
At Leading Youth Forward (LYF), we believe that showing up consistently, connection and memorable moments are what help young people feel seen, supported and understood.
We’ve seen firsthand how a positive role model can give a teen the confidence to try new things, navigate life’s twists, and feel part of a community that genuinely has their back.
And in 2026, we need more of those positive role models to show up as on-going volunteer mentors for Perth Teens.
If you’ve ever thought “I want to make a difference,” now is when you can live up to those thoughts…
What Volunteering with LYF is really about:
Volunteering with LYF is about more than attendance (although committing to showing up regularly for your teen is important!) it’s about being present in someone’s world, offering encouragement, laughter, perspective, and stability.
Through one-on-one mentoring and shared experiences, as a mentor you will get to help teens in Years 7–10 build confidence, resilience and sense of belonging.
Here’s what you can expect:
✨ One-on-one mentoring – be matched with a teen and walk beside them throughout the year
🎉 Big Day Outs and Camp weekends – share fun, growth-filled experiences together
🤝 Supportive community of volunteers – you’re not doing it alone; you’ll connect with others who care deeply, grow together and celebrate wins both big and small.
Mentors make a space where young people feel supported to explore, to challenge themselves, to just be themselves… and that’s nothing short of life-changing.
Why Perth Teens Need You in 2026
For many of the young people who come through LYF, life’s challenges are real, whether it’s social isolation, emotional strain, family instability or a lack of positive community connection.
What you bring as a mentor isn’t dramatic intervention, it’s not necessarily formal qualifications, and it’s not needing to solve everything – rather it’s reliable friendship, genuine encouragement and consistent presence. For a teen who might feel overlooked or underestimated, that matters more than words can capture.
Every laugh on a Big Day Out, every new experience shared, every conversation about hopes or hurdles, it all adds up to deeper confidence and stronger self-belief.
What You’ll Gain as a Volunteer Mentor
Yes, you will be making a lasting difference for someone else, but there is plenty in it for you too:
🌟 Personal growth and perspective: Working with young people opens your eyes in ways nothing else can
🤗 Connections that matter: Bonds formed with teens and fellow volunteers often become treasured friendships
🛠️ Skills that stick: Listening, empathy, communication, leadership, all sharpened in real-world, heart-led ways
🎉 Joy, fun, and fulfilment: Shared adventures make meaningful memories for everyone involved
Who You Are:
We’re looking for mentors in and around Perth, aged 22 to 39, who are:
- Passionate about supporting young people
- Committed to showing up and being reliable
- Open to learning, listening, and building trust
- Ready to be part of a vibrant, supportive volunteer community
No prior mentoring experience is needed. LYF provides training and support so you feel confident from day one.
Opportunities Available in 2026
There are a few different ways you can step in:
🧡 Long-term Mentors – build a year-long, one-on-one connection
⭐ Freelance Mentors – flexible support at events and when other mentors need cover
🤹 Event Helpers – make the magic happen behind the scenes
Every role helps shape a teen’s future.
Apply to Be an LYF Mentor in 2026
Mentoring changes lives, sometimes yours as much as your mentee’s.
It’s community.
It’s connection.
It’s impact that ripples far beyond one weekend or one year.
✨ Apply now to volunteer as a mentor with LYF in 2026.
Whether you choose to mentor one-on-one, support as a freelancer, or help behind the scenes, your presence changes lives.
Head to lyf.org.au/volunteers to find out more and submit your application!