Get Involved
Could you help someone move from surviving to thriving?
The Wayfinder Network depends on people who believe that opportunity should not depend on the family, network or support system someone happens to have. You can get involved as a Navigator, partner, volunteer, professional supporter or introducer.
What does a Navigator do?
A Navigator is a volunteer mentor who shares their time, experience and perspective.
- talking through education or career options;
- sharing insight into a profession or industry;
- helping someone prepare for applications or interviews;
- explaining unfamiliar workplace expectations;
- supporting someone to set realistic goals;
- offering encouragement and a consistent point of contact;
- helping a Participant think through decisions for themselves.
It is not about solving everything.
You are not expected to find someone a job, open your professional network or solve every problem they face. Often, simply having a thoughtful and dependable person to speak to can make an enormous difference.
Who can become a Navigator?
You may be a good fit if you:
- have professional, educational or life experience you would be comfortable sharing;
- are a good listener;
- can offer guidance without taking over;
- are reliable and able to communicate consistently;
- respect privacy and professional boundaries;
- believe that opportunities should not depend on the family or network someone happens to have.
Navigators may come from any profession, sector or educational background. Our early Navigator community includes people with experience across law, finance, startups, medicine, journalism, technology and other professional fields.
What is the commitment?
The commitment depends on the needs of the Participant and the availability of the Navigator. Some mentoring relationships may involve regular check-ins. Others may be lighter-touch, with conversations every few months.
The most important thing is that you are realistic about the time you can offer. A smaller, dependable commitment is much more valuable than an ambitious commitment that cannot be maintained. Most conversations are expected to take place online.
Clear boundaries matter.
Navigators are not therapists, social workers, legal advisors or crisis-support providers in their role as Navigators. Where something falls outside mentoring, The Wayfinder Network provides clear boundaries and signposting where appropriate.
How it works
The first step is simply to introduce yourself. Email [email protected] with the subject line Navigator enquiry and tell us your name, current role, profession or main area of experience, why becoming a Navigator interests you, the kind of guidance you think you could offer and your general availability.
What happens next
If your experience and availability may suit the Network, we will contact you for a more detailed conversation. Before being matched, prospective Navigators may be asked to provide references and complete proportionate screening, safeguarding and conduct requirements.
Partner with us
We welcome conversations with universities, employers, charities, community organizations, professional networks and people looking to volunteer or support the Network in other ways.
Other ways to help
You can support the Network by introducing potential Navigators, offering professional expertise, helping with workshops or panels, supporting Harbors, or helping us reach young people who may benefit.
Interested?
Start by introducing yourself.
The first step is simply to introduce yourself. Email [email protected] with the subject line Navigator enquiry and tell us:
- your name and current role;
- your profession or main area of experience;
- why becoming a Navigator interests you;
- the kind of guidance you think you could offer;
- your general availability.
This does not need to be a formal application. A few short paragraphs are enough.
For universities, employers, charities, community organizations, professional networks or broader volunteering, email [email protected].
