Vocational Mentoring Exchange (VME)

Many young people in our region face significant barriers and issues as they try to navigate their way from school to work. The VME was established to help young people overcome these barriers so they can reach their full potential.

Why Vocational Mentoring?

Vocational mentors help young people to learn about different industries and the workplace, develop their aspirations and self-confidence, extend their networks, and help discover work and career opportunities.
Young people in Melbourne’s inner north, especially post COVID, continue to face multiple barriers in their transition from secondary school. Providing multiple connections into the real world of work while still at school is essential for their future success.

How does it work?

The VME has partnered with 8 local schools and 2 community organisations to develop and implement effective vocational mentoring programs, supporting young people’s (16-25 years) successful transition to further education, training, or work.
Critical to its success is the recruitment, training and support of volunteer vocational mentors. Our aim is to develop a bank of 100+ volunteers who are committed to supporting young people in secondary education or community settings across the region.