When Wellington teenager Levi was first matched with Big Buddy mentor Tim, he was a shy young boy growing up without a father in his life. Nearly ten years later, as Levi prepares to celebrate his 18th birthday, the pair continue to share a friendship that has helped shape the confident young man he has become.
For Levi, having a trusted male role model filled a gap that had long existed.
“Having grown up without my father, I had no male role model to really look up to. Tim filled that gap, providing guidance and giving me someone to look up to.”
What began as regular catch-ups quickly became a meaningful and consistent relationship. Through outings, conversations, and shared experiences, Levi gained not only a mentor but someone he could trust and turn to when life felt challenging.
Over the years, Tim encouraged Levi to try new things and step outside his comfort zone. Activities such as Adrenalin Forest, exploring Whitireia Park, and countless café catch-ups provided opportunities for growth, confidence-building, and connection.
Levi credits those experiences with helping him overcome the anxiety and shyness that once held him back.
“Before meeting Tim I was a very quiet and shy kid who was anxious about change. Spending time with Tim helped me to overcome that, especially when we went off to do something new.”
For Tim, the mentoring relationship became far more rewarding than he ever anticipated. At a point in his life where he was looking for a way to give back to the community, Big Buddy offered the opportunity to make a genuine difference. What he didn’t expect was how much he would gain in return.
Over the years he has had the privilege of watching Levi grow and thrive, achieving academically, earning a place in Tawa College’s First XI hockey team, and being selected for Outward Bound.
Today, Tim’s pride in Levi extends far beyond any individual achievement.
“He’s also just developed into a bloody good human being who is caring, kind and ambitious.”
The impact has been felt by Levi’s entire family. His mother, Rachel, says Tim’s presence has reinforced important values and helped her son develop confidence, aspirations, and a stronger sense of self-belief.
“Big Buddy has meant the world to my family. A connection to Tim has reinforced to Levi what it means to be a valued, generous, contributing member of society and a good human.”
As Levi approaches adulthood, their story stands as a reminder that mentoring is about much more than occasional outings. It’s about showing up consistently, building trust over time, and helping a young person realise their potential.
For Levi and Tim, what started as a Big Buddy match has become a lifelong friendship, proving that one positive role model can make a lasting difference.
Could You Be a Big Buddy?
Big Buddy is currently looking for more volunteer male mentors, as well as boys who would benefit from having a positive and consistent male role model in their lives.
To find out more, contact Wellington Mentoring Manager Dave Burcher at dave@bigbuddy.org.nz or visit www.bigbuddy.org.nz to start your application.
