29 Aug 2019
What is the Mentorship Scheme?
The Mentorship Scheme is a UNICEF project implemented by Kosovo CSR Network with the objective of empowering and developing young people by increasing their capacity to participate in the workforce, policy-making and decision-making processes. The scheme connects youth participating in UNICEF initiatives with volunteer mentors from the private sector and alumni associations.
The programme is designed with flexible models depending on the needs of the target group. The guidance required by a young entrepreneur starting a business differs significantly from the support needed by a young person at risk of dropping out of school. Therefore, the Mentorship Scheme adapts its approach to respond to different social and economic circumstances.
Two Phases of Mentoring
The mentoring process is structured in two main phases:
1. Mentoring during Workshops
Mentors participate in three-day intensive workshops organized by implementing partners. Prior to engagement, mentors attend a Training of Trainers session to become familiar with workshop methodologies, materials and group dynamics.
Each mentor is assigned a group of 6–7 young participants and supports them in shaping their project ideas, strengthening critical thinking and developing practical solutions. Workshops are typically held over weekends and cover themes such as critical media literacy, environmental protection, quality education, activism and entrepreneurship.
The main workshop models include:
UPSHIFT: Social Impact Workshop focused on innovation and entrepreneurship for marginalized youth.
PODIUM: Advocacy for Change, aimed at strengthening advocacy and lobbying skills.
PONDER: Critical Media Literacy, focused on enhancing analytical and media literacy skills.
2. Mentoring during the Implementation Phase
Following the workshops, winning teams receive financial support and begin implementing their projects. During this period, mentors are assigned to support specific groups through meetings, online calls or consultations. Mentors provide guidance on project development, marketing, finance, IT solutions and start-up development.
Participants
Participants are mainly young people aged 15 to 24 from diverse cities and communities across Kosovo. The scheme aims to support transitions from education to employment, from NEET status to education, or from unemployment to active workforce participation.
Why Become a Mentor?
Mentorship has proven positive effects on youth academic achievement, professional development, self-confidence and mental wellbeing. Beyond supporting young individuals, mentorship strengthens social cohesion, enhances employability and fosters leadership development.
Mentors also benefit by developing cognitive and interpersonal skills, expanding professional networks and contributing to meaningful social impact. Schools and communities experience improved youth outcomes and stronger links with the labor market.
All mentors are recognized as UNICEF Volunteers and receive certificates from UNICEF and Kosovo CSR Network upon completion of their engagement.
Before officially becoming a mentor, candidates must complete mandatory online trainings on child protection and prevention of sexual harassment, as well as attend an in-person Human Centered Design training. Certification is provided upon successful completion of these trainings.
Through this initiative, Kosovo CSR Network and UNICEF continue to mobilize private sector expertise in support of youth empowerment and sustainable development in Kosovo.
The programme is designed with flexible models depending on the needs of the target group. The guidance required by a young entrepreneur starting a business differs significantly from the support needed by a young person at risk of dropping out of school. Therefore, the Mentorship Scheme adapts its approach to respond to different social and economic circumstances.
Two Phases of Mentoring
The mentoring process is structured in two main phases:
1. Mentoring during Workshops
Mentors participate in three-day intensive workshops organized by implementing partners. Prior to engagement, mentors attend a Training of Trainers session to become familiar with workshop methodologies, materials and group dynamics.
Each mentor is assigned a group of 6–7 young participants and supports them in shaping their project ideas, strengthening critical thinking and developing practical solutions. Workshops are typically held over weekends and cover themes such as critical media literacy, environmental protection, quality education, activism and entrepreneurship.
The main workshop models include:
UPSHIFT: Social Impact Workshop focused on innovation and entrepreneurship for marginalized youth.
PODIUM: Advocacy for Change, aimed at strengthening advocacy and lobbying skills.
PONDER: Critical Media Literacy, focused on enhancing analytical and media literacy skills.
2. Mentoring during the Implementation Phase
Following the workshops, winning teams receive financial support and begin implementing their projects. During this period, mentors are assigned to support specific groups through meetings, online calls or consultations. Mentors provide guidance on project development, marketing, finance, IT solutions and start-up development.
Participants
Participants are mainly young people aged 15 to 24 from diverse cities and communities across Kosovo. The scheme aims to support transitions from education to employment, from NEET status to education, or from unemployment to active workforce participation.
Why Become a Mentor?
Mentorship has proven positive effects on youth academic achievement, professional development, self-confidence and mental wellbeing. Beyond supporting young individuals, mentorship strengthens social cohesion, enhances employability and fosters leadership development.
Mentors also benefit by developing cognitive and interpersonal skills, expanding professional networks and contributing to meaningful social impact. Schools and communities experience improved youth outcomes and stronger links with the labor market.
All mentors are recognized as UNICEF Volunteers and receive certificates from UNICEF and Kosovo CSR Network upon completion of their engagement.
Before officially becoming a mentor, candidates must complete mandatory online trainings on child protection and prevention of sexual harassment, as well as attend an in-person Human Centered Design training. Certification is provided upon successful completion of these trainings.
Through this initiative, Kosovo CSR Network and UNICEF continue to mobilize private sector expertise in support of youth empowerment and sustainable development in Kosovo.