Making a difference to our student’s lives

 

Stephen Klyen is an exceptional individual with a heart full of compassion, and has been making a positive impact in his community as a dedicated volunteer for EdConnect Australia since 2015. We here at EdConnect Australia connect caring members of the community with local schools, and help over 10,000 students to achieve their academic and life skills potential.

“The best part of this opportunity is being able to see the smiles light up on their faces,” said Stephen.

Stephen’s current role as an EdConnect mentor at Booragoon Primary School has provided him with a great opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young students.

With unwavering commitment, giving an hour and half a week, he has been mentoring a year 4 and a year 6 boy, to create a nurturing environment for them to thrive.

Stephen fosters strong positive relationships and engages with the students through various activities of interest to the children. Whether it’s playing soccer and other games on the oval, or spending quality time discussing their goals and dreams, Stephen consistently goes the extra mile to make the mentoring experience memorable and enjoyable for the students.

He also engages their minds by playing chess and other board games, encouraging critical thinking and strategic planning. This well-rounded approach to mentorship ensures that the students not only develop academically but also grow as individuals with a broader understanding of the world around them and are more connected to their community.

His genuine joy and enthusiasm are evident in his interactions with the students.

Stephen’s impact extends beyond the school grounds, as he is also involved in the Melville Community Men’s Shed, an organisation that empowers individuals to pursue their passion projects while raising awareness for men’s mental health.

EdConnect Australia trains and supports volunteers to work in local schools, providing a safety net for young people who might otherwise struggle to realise their potential – in school and life. It is Australia’s only intergenerational volunteering charity which operates within both primary and secondary schools.

For more information on our volunteering program click here, email edconnect@edconnect.org.au or call 1800 668 550.