The Impact of Mentors

The Clubhouse learning approach is designed to empower youth from all backgrounds to become more capable, creative, and confident learners. Members can drive their own projects according to their interests and ideas, and Clubhouse mentors also engage with members by sharing their experience and knowledge.

This year, the Clubhouse welcomes three new mentors in the upcoming weeks and we will hear from each of them about their experiences in the Clubhouse! These mentors are helping young people express themselves through technology, and offer support to Members as they connect their interests with technology, computers, and creative skills.

Our mentors have been focusing on developing relationships based on respect and trust with Clubhouse Members and work together to teach and learn.

This week, two of our mentors, Durell and Steven, helped members to build a pinball like miniature arcade game. With only cardboard, paddle pop sticks, rubber bands, some tape and a pair of scissors, the Clubhouse was able to make a really fun game. They used creativity, problem solving, and a lot of experimenting to make this game work. With some decorating and more obstacles to include, we think this little project will be a big hit for more members to get their engineering hats on!

Watch the game in action.

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The Clubhouse always welcomes new mentors! If you have an interest in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math and would like to volunteer in the community, register your interest, contact our Clubhouse Coordinator, Annie-Lea Rowley, at annielea.rowley@ywca-canberra.org.au or on 0406 375 993.

The Power of Drumming

This term, Clubhouse Coordinator Annie-Lea is facilitating a Djembe drumming outreach class at Richardson Primary School.

Current research indicates the therapeutic effects of drumming techniques, which shows that drumming accelerates physical healing and boosts the immune system. Drum Circles also provide an opportunity for participants to feel connected with others and gain a sense of interpersonal support. A drum circle provides an opportunity to connect with your own spirit at a deeper level, and can also alleviate isolation and alienation. There are great benefits to feeling connected to others, especially those in similar situations.

Specific studies show drumming:

• creates a sense of connectedness with self and others
• helps us experience being in resonance with the natural rhythms of life
• provides a medium for individual self-realisation
• reduces tension, anxiety and stress
• boosts the immune system
• releases negative feelings and emotional trauma.

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This drumming circle opportunity has been offered to the 5/6 class as a leadership opportunity. This week, the group learnt all about the structure of the drum, how to hold it, the different sounds you can make, and even started to learn their first rhythm. This outreach will continue through the term, and eventually the group will be performing for the school assembly and others events.

Young people can sign up to be a Clubhouse member by dropping in at the Clubhouse (located at Richardson Primary School), or by downloading a membership form (word) a from the Clubhouse website.

Every day you can stay updated on all our highlights by keeping an eye on our Facebook and Twitter pages. You can also read our blog and subscribe to the YWCA Canberra Clubhouse quarterly newsletter!