Big Buddy News
Why Big Buddy Needs More Men to Step Up
Big Buddy has been connecting boys without dads in their lives with positive male role models for nearly 30 years. But with waiting lists growing and demand exceeding available mentors, more men are urgently needed to step up. In a recent RNZ interview, Big Buddy Co-CEO Steve Sobota explains why simply showing up can have a lasting impact on a young person’s life.
Creating Lasting Change: Why the Big Toe Foundation Supports Big Buddy
Strong communities are built when young people have the support they need to thrive. Through its partnership with Big Buddy, the Big Toe Foundation is helping create lasting change by connecting boys without a dad in their lives to positive male mentors. Together, they are strengthening families, empowering young people, and fostering brighter futures across New Zealand.
Building Connections, One Brick at a Time
Our Big and Little Buddies recently spent a day with Brick Engaged, taking part in a range of LEGO® activities designed to encourage teamwork, communication, and connection. Check out the photo gallery from the day.
Auckland Group Programme (GP8)
Over eight weeks, a group of Auckland boys stepped outside their comfort zones, built meaningful friendships, and discovered new strengths through adventure-based activities, workshops, and a transformative camp experience. From challenging outdoor pursuits to opportunities for reflection and personal growth, the programme helped participants develop confidence, resilience, and stronger connections with themselves and others.
Wellington Group Programme GP7
Over eight weeks, a group of Wellington boys challenged themselves through rock climbing, whitewater rafting, bushcraft, workshops, and a Matariki camp experience. Along the way they built confidence, resilience, stronger connections, and valuable life skills, culminating in a powerful Homecoming Hui with their whānau and mentors.
From First Match to Lifelong Mate: John and Cruz’s Big Buddy Journey
What began as a Big Buddy match more than a decade ago has grown into a lifelong friendship. John and Cruz’s story show the lasting impact of mentoring, from childhood guidance and support to shared milestones, family connections, and a bond that continues to shape both their lives today.
Thank You Mark Talbot
After more than 15 years on the Big Buddy Mentoring Trust Board, Mark Talbot is stepping down as Trustee, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of leadership, service and advocacy. A former Big Buddy mentor himself, Mark has helped guide the organisation through years of growth.
Showing Up Matters: How Big Buddy Gives Boys a Positive Alternative
As conversations about masculinity and online influence continue to dominate headlines, Big Buddy Programme Lead Shane Brown joined RNZ’s Jesse Mulligan to discuss the growing need for positive male role models. In this insightful interview, Shane shares how consistent mentoring relationships help boys build confidence, connection and resilience, while offering a healthy alternative to the harmful messages many young men encounter online.
Why Being a Big Buddy Gets You Moving — and Why That Matters
What if improving your wellbeing was as simple as showing up for someone else?
For Big Buddies, mentoring boys isn’t just about making a difference — it’s about getting outside, staying active, and reconnecting with what matters most.
Today, you can help to change a boy’s life forever.
By donating, you will help a boy whose dad is not around to find a man he can trust and look up to, a Big Buddy.
