"Wesley is my mentor and Tchoukball coach. We enjoy each other’s company: we both like to joke around and play harmless pranks on others.”
Once a youth-at-risk, Warner knew of YGOS through the School Social Work Programme. He is now a volunteer.
“I was kinda playful in school. There was once when I fought in the toilet because of a conflict. I was referred to YGOS because of the trouble I created for my teachers, even till the days when I was in ITE.”
When asked about his reasons for volunteering at YGOS, Warner, who was then studying Community Care and Social Services at NITEC, shared that he did so out of his interest in the social service sector.
Central in Warner’s journey with YGOS was learning about forgiveness and patience. He has cultivated a strong sense of discipline which has shaped his character.
“Plus, the work at YGOS is not routine, unlike other industrial attachments that I have been on. And I wanted to be in a position to guide youths, as I have once been lost in my own life.” Central in Warner’s journey with YGOS was learning about forgiveness and patience. He has cultivated a strong sense of discipline which has shaped his character.
As Warner embarks on guiding other youths in their lives, he is thankful for Wesley for guiding him in his own life.
"He was always there even though I was hard to deal with. I really appreciate the trust he has in me. His leadership and ability to resolve emotional challenges really impacted me.”
“I really admire his patience for everyone, especially towards me. Whenever I’m angry or sad, he would call me, even during the wee hours of the night to lend me a listening ear. He was always there even though I was hard to deal with. I really appreciate the trust he has in me. His leadership and ability to resolve emotional challenges really impacted me.”
Now, Warner looks forward to mentor other youths so that they will not tread down the “wrong” path.
By: Warner (name has been changed to protect author's privacy)