Since January 2021, the Mentorship Sanga, has connected 150 seekers across 75 cities in North America. Mentors and mentees speak biweekly over the course of the year through phone calls or video chats to build meaningful bonds that rest on a robust spiritual foundation. Read the latest summary of the sanga here.
As part of the program, seekers attend monthly workshops led by Chinmaya Setukaris on a range of relevant topics such as loneliness or climate change. These popular workshops create valuable spaces to discuss highly relevant topics that pose real challenges to the youth of today.
Please note: The information and direction provided in this Sanga are for education and reflection purposes only and are not to be used as a substitute for treatment and advice from a licensed and qualified professional.
2024 Registration is open
We welcome you to register for Mentorship Sanga 2024!
You can sign up either as a Mentor (aged 29-45) or Mentee (aged 15-28). Matches are considered on a rolling basis. After registering, stay tuned for more information regarding your match.
Questions? Email chinmayamentorship@gmail.com.
Please note that all previous participants must re-register, without exception.
Wellness Workshop – Apr 21
Kamini Vasudev who is a licensed Psychiatrist and Seeker who will help us understand mental health care. We will unlearn our inherent biases and understand how to advocate for better mental health for ourselves and others.
Join us at 9pm ET, all are welcome!
About the Program
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
If your question is not listed below, please email chinmayamentorship@gmail.com and one of our team members will be happy to assist.
PROGRAM
If I was a mentor/mentee last year do I need to re-register?
Yes! All mentors/mentees must submit a new registration.
Do I need to attend orientation if I did so last year?
Yes! Each year we evolve the program so please make sure to join.
Are there specific requirements to be a part of this program?
Yes, they are as follows: 1) Mentors and Mentees are required to meet a minimum of 2 hrs/month 2) mentees under 18 require parental consent 3) Mentors are typically aged 29-45 while mentees are 15-28
How should I first get in touch with my mentor/mentee?
You will receive a welcome email introducing the mentee with their mentor. If you have not received that email, please check your spam folder, or email us at chinmayamentorship@gmail.com.
How often does a mentor meet with a mentee?
We recommend meeting 2x per month for a minimum of 30 mins, in addition to attending our monthly workshops.
How long does the program run for?
It is a 1 year cycle with a start in January and completion in December
What are the ages of mentors / mentees?
Mentors are typically aged 29-45 while mentees are 15-28
Will the monthly wellness workshops be recorded?
Yes, they will be recorded and available on our Chinmaya Niagara Youtube Channel. Navigate to the playlist titled “Seeking Wellness“
How do I join the WhatsApp group with all program participants?
Please email chinmayamentorship@gmail.com and one of our team members will be happy to share the invitation link.
MENTORS
Is a mentor like a counselor?
No. Mentors are not professional counsellors and can not provide medical advice. They are experienced seekers who can provide guidance rooted in Vedanta. We do have an Advisory Committee whose advice and guidance we will be seeking when necessary.
What qualifications do I require to be a mentor?
No professional qualifications are required, but a spiritual and Vedantic background is valuable
What should we talk about?
The purpose of the interaction is to cultivate a meaningful and trusted friendship, as well as deep thinking regarding daily life as well as one’s self development. Prompts and activities will be shared regularly which can be used to help facilitate conversation. But most importantly, have fun!
How should I connect with my mentee?
Most seekers connect through ZOOM, or FaceTime/WhatsApp video call or phone call – the program is entirely remote, but you are welcome to meet in person should the opportunity arise.
What if I feel that my mentee is in need of expert advice that feels beyond my scope?
Our program is supported by a team of professional psychologists and physicians. Please email your pod leader or email us at chinmayamentorship@gmail.com so we can connect you to our advisors. All conversations will remain strictly confidential.
What should I do if I have a question during the program?
For general questions email us at chinmayamentorship@gmail.com
MENTEES
Will what I share with my mentor during our sessions be confidential?
All communication between mentors and mentees will be confidential. It is only when a mentor feels that a mentee is in need of professional advice that both Vivek ji and our advisory committee will be involved. This will only happen with the consent of the mentee (unless they are under the age of 18 in which case parents might be contacted in serious scenarios)
How should I connect with my mentor?
Most seekers connect through ZOOM, or FaceTime/WhatsApp video call or phone call – the program is entirely remote, but you are welcome to meet in person should the opportunity arise.
Are there any topics that are off limits?
Maintaining respect towards your mentor is key. Also understanding that this relationship is a sacred one. Feel free to ask this question directly to your mentor as well.
I am under 18 – what consent is needed?
You will be contacted by the team via email to obtain permission from your parent/guardian about your participation in the program