Hey little sister, who’s the lucky one?

• Published date: 24 April 2024
• Publication title: Hastings Leader, The

The Big Brothers Big Sisters NZ and Fonterra Farm Source initiative is aimed at getting more farmers involved as a mentor in Taranaki

And a year on, farmers involved are realising what a difference an hour of mentoring can make for vulnerable youth.

Malissa Alexander has been matched with her little sister, Mia, for almost three years now — and was one of the first involved in the programme targeted at farmers.

The farm hand signed up as she believed it would be a great way to spend her spare time.

“I now have a lovely 9-year-old little sister, and she’s learning a lot through me because of being a farmer and getting introduced to the countryside,” Alexander said.

But getting away from the stress of her Stratford farm has been one of the biggest benefits for Alexander.

“When you’re hanging out with your little sister, they are just so excited to see you and just want to have so much fun with you, that the only thing that you can think of is enjoying your time with your little,” she said.

“Seeing her learning and seeing her smile all the time is just a joy.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters chief executive Drew Ewan said it was hoped the pilot would lead to a national initiative.

He has received feedback about how great it has been for farmers to spend a few hours each week having fun with their young person.

“The research that’s coming through is very strongly showing that the mentors are gaining a lot out of this themselves personally, on their mental-health side.”

Kiwi farmers have been struggling with mental health issues — largely due to loneliness and financial troubles recently.

Last year, Rural Support Trust experienced a 53 per cent increase in call numbers throughout the country.

Getting time off a farm was one of the best things a farmer could do, says Federated Farmers Taranaki president Leedom Gibbs.

“From my perspective, as someone who can find themselves very isolated and kind of shut down quite easily, it’s one of the most important things that we can do for ourselves.”

She...