Shaheen Mentors
Higher Education Pathway Programme
Self-Reliance (Khudi) — building independent thinkers
A mentoring platform connecting students (ages 14–25) from underrepresented backgrounds with professionals and university students who guide them toward higher education and career success.
خودی کو کر بلند اتنا
"Raise yourself so high that before every decree, God Himself asks you: What is your will?"
Iqbal's falcon does not eat food hunted by others — it learns to hunt for itself. Our mentoring programme builds the self-reliance (Khudi) that transforms lives.
Six Pathways to Success
Comprehensive support from GCSE to graduation and beyond.
1-to-1 Mentoring
Fortnightly sessions
Matched mentor-mentee pairs via secure online platform
University Application Support
Seasonal (Sept–Jan)
UCAS guidance, personal statement workshops, interview prep
Career Exploration
Monthly events
Industry talks, workplace visits, career quizzes
Study Skills Workshops
Termly
Revision techniques, exam preparation, time management
Shaheen Leadership Programme
12-week cohort
Leadership, public speaking, project management for ages 16–25
Parent Engagement
Termly
Sessions for parents unfamiliar with UK higher education
Secure, Supportive, Structured
Our mentoring platform ensures every relationship is safe, productive, and goal-oriented.
- Secure video call and messaging (safeguarded)
- Mentor-mentee matching algorithm based on interests and goals
- Progress tracking and goal setting
- Resource library (UCAS guides, revision materials, career profiles)
- Community forum for peer support
- All mentors DBS-checked with regular training
Safeguarding First
All mentors DBS-checked: Enhanced disclosure and barring service checks for everyone.
Regular training: Safeguarding, boundary-setting, and communication skills.
Session monitoring: Platform tracks engagement and flags concerns.
Clear escalation: Designated safeguarding lead available 24/7.
From GCSE to University and Beyond
Real stories of students who found their wings through mentoring.
"My mentor helped me see that university wasn't just for 'other people'. She showed me how to write my personal statement, prepped me for interviews, and believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. Now I'm studying medicine at King's College London."
Yusuf A.
Student, Birmingham → KCL Medicine
"As a first-generation student, I had no idea how UCAS worked. The Shaheen Mentors programme paired me with someone from my dream industry who explained everything step by step. I got my first choice!"
Amara K.
Student, Manchester → University of Cambridge
Two Ways to Join
Whether you need mentoring or want to become a mentor, we welcome you.
I Need a Mentor
Ages 14–25, looking for university or career guidance
- • Free 1-to-1 mentoring sessions
- • UCAS and career support
- • Access to workshops and events
- • Peer community network
I Want to Mentor
Professionals, university students, anyone with experience to share
- • Commit 2 hours/month minimum
- • DBS check provided (free)
- • Full training and ongoing support
- • Make a lasting difference
Invest in the Next Generation
Your donation helps us match more students with mentors who change their lives. Every £25 provides a month of mentoring sessions for one student.