An important part of the PeaceJam programme are the near-peer mentors that work with our youth at our events and through our programmes in schools and with youth groups. Mentors are paired up to create the space and energy to ensure that all participants feel welcomed and safe to engage in challenging discussions around nonviolence, peacebuilding, social inclusion and human rights. This is a fantastic opportunity to develop your leadership skills, connect with change-makers across the UK and take action in your local community.
ABOUT PEACEJAM
PeaceJam uses the inspirational experiences of 14 Nobel Peace Prize winners to empower young people to take action and make positive changes in themselves, their communities and the world.
ABOUT THE MENTOR PROGRAMME
At our events, mentors will meet with small groups of students from a diverse range of backgrounds and organisations 3-5 times over 1-2 days, depending on whether it is a one-day or two-day conference. We currently event planning for the 2025-2026 academic year in the UK, including organising an online conference this autumn and the return of our in-person Manchester Slam in March 2026. However, once you have completed all the required mentor training, you can volunteer to mentor at any PeaceJam event held worldwide.
Our 'Be the Change!' programme brings our mentors into schools and youth centres, online or in-person, to work with either a small, select group of youth or potentially a class or year group depending on the needs of the organisation. The programme is aimed at 11-18-year-olds, many of whom have experienced challenging circumstances and mentors will be trained to deliver workshops where young people can discuss their concerns in a safe space, learn to overcome challenges and go on to devise and run a social change project of their own choosing.
PeaceJam UK after-school clubs! Working in partnership with Westbourne Rotary and RotaKids, we are looking to facilitate an after-school PeaceJam club at a local Bournemouth Primary School (ages 5-11) this Autumn. Sessions will last an hour, and mentors will help facilitate activities and discussions around local issues, challenges and support the students in creating and implementing a social action project of their own choosing.
NEED TO KNOW
We are looking for applicants aged 18-26 (although if you are outside this age bracket and are interested in the role, we recommend getting in contact). You do not need to have any previous mentor or youth work experience; all relevant training will be provided. However, we are looking for applicants who enjoy working with youth aged 11-18 and are enthusiastic about supporting social action in the community.
After you apply, you will receive an email with a link to a Google Form to complete, which will help us support you on your mentor journey. After you have filled in the form, we can let you know about upcoming training and mentoring opportunities in your area for you to sign up for certain hours/dates. There is no minimum or maximum hours to sign up for, all we ask is that all the required training is completed beforehand.
Benefits to self
There is no minimum or maximum hours to sign up for; mentoring should fit around your schedule and course demands. You will gain experience with youth of all ages and have a chance to network with changemakers across the UK and in your local community.
Benefits to others
Empower young people to implement positive change in the local community. Support leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.
Training available
A minimum of ten hours of training will be provided before undertaking the mentor role. This will include understanding what the role of a mentor is, how to create safe and brave spaces, how to spot potential problems and solve them and group management (including behaviour strategies).
Hours per week
No minimum hours per week