For Trisha, becoming a mentor wasn’t a single moment—it was a gradual realization shaped by the many adults who guided her own childhood. “So many adults were involved in my life as a child; at some point I realized I had learned from each of them,” she shares. “Not everyone has that. Deciding to be a Mentor began there and grew from the school system educating me on the value and importance of helping in my community whenever I can.” That desire to give back has stayed with her ever since.

Today, Trisha brings that same thoughtful, intentional energy to her mentoring relationship. “I don’t know that I can express it clearly in words,” she says. “Mentoring challenges me; rewards me; and humbles me. It reminds me to practice patience and kindness; understanding and compassion—towards others, and especially towards myself.”

When asked to share a “fun fact,” Trisha laughs and gives us a riddle instead: “I have siblings, but technically I am also an only child. What do you think that means?” (We’re still working on solving that one!)

Trisha’s time with her mentee is filled with imagination and adventure. “Times when we’re being active or creative are my favourites,” she says. “We rock climb (bouldering), run, bike, explore the forest, dance, and play. We create with paper origami, paints, drawings, and stories. We use our imaginations as much and as often as we can.”

But some of the most meaningful moments are the quiet, reflective ones. “My Mentee is amazing,” Trisha says with pride. “I think my favorite moments are when I see growth in her—when I watch her think on something carefully, weigh the options, and make a decision she is comfortable with. From 7 years of age to 10, I’ve had the privilege to see her learn and grow in leaps and bounds.”

And those heart-melting moments? “When she takes the time to tell me how much she loves spending time with me and thanks me for being there.”

Over the years, Trisha has learned just as much from her mentee as she’s taught. Early on, she discovered something powerful: “I thought I would always need to be ‘at my best’ to really help and support her; I was wrong. She taught me that I could show up in all my states—tired, joyful, uncertain—and she would still accept me. That humbled me.” More recently, she’s been reminded of how early deep thoughts and worries take root in young minds. “Ten is truly the start of adolescence.”

For anyone considering becoming a mentor, Trisha offers heartfelt advice: “Ask questions. Get curious about their interests, hopes, and reasons. And remember—mentors aren’t just adults; they’re friends, guides, and consistent people kids can rely on. You don’t change a child’s life by telling them what to do, but by helping them build their toolkit—of resources, experiences, and confidence. Be silly. Be kind. Be present for the easy, the hard, and the impossible… if they’ll have you. That’s how we help. That’s how you mentor.”

From everyone at BBBSO, and the community, thank you, Trisha, for being a shining example of what mentorship truly means and making a BIG difference, everyday.