Kodzero Youth Mentoring
Empowering Communities, Embracing Diversity

2023 - 2024
Kodzero (meaning “rights” or “voice” in Shona) is a youth mentorship and nurturing project created by Pachedu to support minority ethnic youth in realising their potential. It provides a structured mentorship program pairing young people (mentees) with experienced mentors in the community. The objectives are to develop leadership skills, improve employability and education outcomes, and empower youth to “be more visible and pro-active in shaping their communities” – echoing Pachedu’s founding mission. Kodzero features workshops, one-on-one mentoring sessions, and group projects that encourage personal development, confidence-building, and civic engagement. It also incorporates mental well-being support and life skills training as needed.
Project Details
Target Beneficiaries
Minority ethnic youth and young adults (roughly ages 16–25) in Renfrewshire and Greater Glasgow area. This includes recent immigrants as well as UK-born young people from African, Asian, or other minority backgrounds who may face barriers in school, employment, or community leadership.
Outcomes / Impact
(Ongoing – preliminary outcomes only). Since its launch, the first cohort of mentees (introduced in early 2024) has engaged in brainstorming and training sessions. The “Kodzero team” has been actively working on planning and refining the mentorship curriculum. Early indicators show increased enthusiasm and ambition among participants; for example, after kickoff, youth attendees voiced excitement about networking with mentors from various fields (business, academia, arts). A formal evaluation is expected after the first cycle completes, but Pachedu anticipates improved academic progress, higher rates of youth volunteering, and new community initiatives led by these mentored youths.
Funding Sources
Kodzero has been supported through a combination of local partnerships and grants. It received backing from the Renfrewshire Health & Social Care Partnership and CEMVO Scotland (Council of Ethnic Minority Voluntary Organisations) – likely via targeted youth development or community mental health funds (as indicated by partner hashtags). Additional support comes from See Me Scotland (possibly providing mental health workshop resources) and Skills Development Scotland (for employability skills input). These partnerships suggest a blend of public sector funding and third-sector program support.
Collaborators / Partners
As noted, the project works closely with CEMVO Scotland and See Me Scotland, leveraging their expertise in capacity-building and stigma reduction. The Renfrewshire HSCP’s involvement ensures alignment with local youth mental health services. The Scottish Refugee Council and local schools/colleges are also likely referral partners for identifying mentees. Pachedu’s staff and volunteers (some of whom are professionals in various industries) serve as mentors alongside external mentors recruited from the community. This collaborative approach grounds Kodzero in a strong support network spanning mental health, equality, and skills development sectors.