Mohammad Khan: IT System Analyst - Halifax Bank plc

For many years Mohammad has been a positive role model for young people in Bury. Wishing that he had had a mentor to guide him through the education system, he explains why mentoring is important to his philosophy.

I never had a mentor at school and had no idea how the education system worked. I only knew what GCSEs and A levels were after I had sat the exams. I only found out how the University points system worked after I had reached University.

After University I learnt through trial and error how to apply for jobs and what interviewers were looking for. As part of my University course I spent six months studying in Holland on an exchange study programme. I met some wonderful people, many of whom I keep in touch with today. This helped me to develop as a person and opened up my eyes to so many opportunities the world presents to us, such as the experience of living abroad, learning new cultures, languages, meeting people.

On my return from Holland I became interested in self development and read a number of books on the subject as well as speaking to motivational talkers. I learnt from my experiences and the books, that to really develop as a person and enjoy life to the maximum you have to help others, as one book put it “the secret of living is giving”.

I began by helping family members who were embarking on the route I had followed. I helped my nephews and cousins with their exam preparations, College/University applications forms and job applications/interviews. This gave me a lot of satisfaction but I was looking for more, I was looking to help people beyond my relatives.

After speaking to friends involved in working with young people I was concerned with the negative issues affecting them and wanted to help in some way. I spoke to the Youth Offending Team in Bury who put me in touch with Bolton & Bury EBP. The first person I mentored was a young person who had been in trouble with the law for shoplifting. I helped him realise this was wrong and supported him with job applications and obtaining rental accommodation. Since then I have mentored two students in local schools. I help them with various aspects of their school work, exam preparation and provide career advice.

The students are always surprised when I tell them I don’t get paid for what I do and I work in IT, not for the school or social services etc. I believe it strengthens the relationship when they realise that I genuinely want to help them and I am there of my own free will.

So why do I do it?
Like I mentioned, I am into self development and I am always looking to better myself. One way I achieve this is by gaining satisfaction in seeing others helped by some advice I have given. It makes me feel good knowing that I have helped someone stay on the right path rather than stray from it. I am also a Muslim and undertake the role of a mentor for religious reasons. My religion, Islam, promotes the helping of others, especially young people.
 
I believe it is very important for young people to have access to mentors. Children are this country’s future and if they do not have mentors to turn to then I believe our society as a whole will suffer in the future.

If, like Mohammad, you would like to help a young person, consider mentoring. It only takes about an hour of your time each month. Contact the Mentoring Coordinator for further information on 01204 375790.