Mentor Yng

Empowering Youth with Acquired Brain Injury Through Peer Mentorship

A educational program for young people with ABI

Mentor Yng is an innovative peer-mentorship program developed by the Sunnaas Foundation, designed to support young individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI). Through structured training in leadership, communication, and mentoring skills, the program empowers participants to take on active roles as peer mentors. By sharing their lived experiences, these young mentors provide crucial support to others facing similar challenges, fostering a sense of community, self-confidence, and independence.

The importance of peer mentorship in rehabilitation

For young people living with ABI, rehabilitation extends far beyond medical treatment. Social integration, self-efficacy, and the ability to navigate everyday challenges are essential aspects of recovery. Peer mentors—individuals with personal experience of ABI—offer unique guidance, encouragement, and practical strategies that healthcare professionals alone cannot provide.

The Sunnaas Foundation has extensive expertise in Active Rehabilitation (AR) programs, which focus on helping individuals regain independence and quality of life after severe injuries or illnesses. Programs such as Brain Camp Yng and Brain Camp Alumni have provided life-changing support for children, youth, and their families. Building on this foundation, Mentor Yng was established to train youth aged 14–22 as peer mentors, strengthening their ability to contribute to the rehabilitation journey of others.

Since its launch, Mentor Yng has successfully trained 20 young peer mentors from across Norway, creating a growing network of support for ABI survivors.

How the Mentor Yng program works

Mentor Yng is a seven-month, module-based educational program that combines theoretical learning, practical training, and peer networking. Participants engage in three in-person gatherings (each lasting 2–3 days) and receive ongoing digital supervision between sessions. Additionally, each participant gains hands-on experience as a mentor at one of the Sunnaas Foundation’s Active Rehabilitation Camps, where they work under the guidance of experienced peer mentors.

Key focus areas:

The Mentor Yng program is designed to empower young individuals with ABI by focusing on key areas that promote growth, confidence, and community involvement.

Self-development and leadership help participants strengthen their confidence, self-awareness, and ability to guide others.

Through theoretical learning, they gain a deeper understanding of ABI-related challenges and effective coping strategies.

Practical application allows them to apply their knowledge in real-life mentoring situations, gaining valuable hands-on experience.

In addition, the program fosters peer networks, creating strong social connections that provide lasting support and encouragement.

The Mentor Yng program actively encourages collaboration with teachers and employers to ensure that participants receive the support they need to fully engage in the program. By working closely with schools and workplaces, we aim to facilitate flexible arrangements, allowing participants to take time off to participate in program gatherings. Additionally, this collaboration helps raise awareness and understanding of the challenges young people with ABI face, ensuring that educators and employers can provide meaningful support.

Beyond the program itself, this partnership plays a role in helping participants stay engaged in education, work, and social activities, reducing the risk of isolation. By fostering a more inclusive environment, we empower young people with ABI to remain active members of their communities and succeed in their personal and professional lives.

Core Components:

  • Leadership development: Communication strategies and mentorship techniques.

  • Psychoeducation: Enhancing coping skills through targeted education and support.

  • Cognitive and mental strategies: Techniques for focus, resilience, stress management, and emotional regulation.

  • Assistive tools: Utilizing physical and digital aids to support independence.

  • Effective communication: Expressing needs, adapting communication styles, and balancing personal experiences.

  • Cognitive coping strategies: Practical methods for organization, task prioritization, and progress tracking.

  • Goal-setting & social skills: SMART goal development, teamwork, and community integration.

Impact and participant experiences

Feedback from participants highlights the transformative impact of the Mentor Yng program. Many report:

✔️ Increased motivation, confidence, and engagement

✔️ Improved ability to manage daily life

✔️ A stronger peer support network

✔️ Active use of acquired skills as mentors and in everyday situations

✔️ A deeper sense of purpose and empowerment in their rehabilitation journey

Looking ahead: future plans for Mentor Yng

The Sunnaas Foundation is committed to expanding and refining the Mentor Yng program. Future goals include:

  • Expanding the reach of the program to support more young people with ABI and include those with spinal cord injuries.

  • Strengthening research on the long-term impact of peer mentorship in rehabilitation.

  • Exploring international collaborations to adapt the program across diverse cultural and healthcare contexts.

By continuously evolving and growing, Mentor Yng aims to ensure that young individuals with ABI have access to the support, skills, and community they need to thrive.