Finding Strength in a Good Match: Hadisa and Carly’s Story
National Mentoring Month is a time to recognize the relationships that help young people feel supported, seen, and confident about what lies ahead. This month, we are spotlighting Hadisa and Carly, a Little Sister and Big Sister whose story shows how the right match can make mentorship meaningful, even in quiet, steady ways.
“I’ve had mentors in my life who made a big impact on me. It’s just nice to pass that forward.”
– Carly, Big Sister
When the Match Feels Right
From the very beginning, Hadisa and Carly felt comfortable with one another. Their connection was grounded in shared interests, similar values, and an easy sense of understanding, including a mutual interest in engineering.
“From the very beginning, it felt natural and easy to be around each other,” Carly reflects. “I was surprised by how good of a match it was.”
That sense of ease shaped their relationship. Conversations came naturally, trust built over time, and mentorship never felt forced. Carly became a steady presence in Hadisa’s life, someone she could rely on for encouragement and perspective.
“Being around Carly feels like big sisters,” Hadisa shares. “You can always turn to her.”
Support That Shows Up in the Moments That Matter
One of the moments that stands out most for Carly was watching Hadisa graduate from Grade 12. Seeing her surrounded by family and friends marked not just an academic milestone, but the confidence Hadisa had built along the way.
Carly never set out to direct Hadisa’s path. Instead, she focused on showing up consistently and supporting her as she explored her own goals.
Over time, their relationship grew into something defined by mutual respect and care.
“She’s also a sister and a best friend,” Hadisa says.
In a letter to Carly, Hadisa shared how much that steady support meant to her: “You’ve been an incredible mentor, someone I’ve looked up to and learned from. You’ve inspired me more than you probably realize.”
Looking Ahead
Today, Hadisa is looking toward the future with aspirations of becoming a biomedical engineer. Her journey is still unfolding, but having a mentor who understood her interests and believed in her made imagining that future feel possible.
“Hopefully one day, I’ll think about becoming a Big Sister too,” Hadisa says.
How You Can Make a Difference
This National Mentoring Month, Hadisa and Carly’s story is a reminder that mentorship does not always look dramatic. Sometimes, its power comes from being well matched, showing up consistently, and building a connection that feels easy, supportive, and real.
Watch the full video below and become a volunteer mentor today to help young people build confidence, connection, and a strong sense of possibility for their future.