What’s your name and how long have you been involved with Sister2Sister?
I'm Cat - I've been involved with Sister2Sister for 1 and a half years.
What inspired you to become a Big Sister?
I attended a presentation where a former Little Sister spoke about her experience from participating in the program. She was a wallflower, immensely shy and anxious. She always thought that she was invisible. The Big Sister program helped her realise, feel and learn that she was seen, validated and recognised as a worthwhile young person. She has since gone out to make significant positive impact to the world around her. The positive ripple effects can be enormous and far reaching. I felt that if I could make even the tiniest positive impact on another individual, then I would be playing a part in building a kind, compassionate society. The Big Sister program was an opportunity for me to try and make such a contribution.
How has this role impacted your life and the lives of those you mentor?
This program showed both my Little Sister and I that we have a lot more in common with others than we realise, whether it is our peers or a girl/woman who is half (or twice) our age, or from different cultures and lifestyles - we experience the same fears, insecuirites and anxieties. And by sharing and talking about them, we lessen the hold it has on us. It makes us feel less alone and we share ideas on how we can face such challenges in our lives. We also learn that there are diverse families, ways of living outside our own bubble and that helps us be more understanding and compassionate. It also helps immensely to know that there is someone that we can count on and trust, alwasy in our corner - that gives us an extra confidence and strength to face life's rollercoaster rides.
What does being a Big Sister mean to you?
Being a Big Sister means that I am a person my Little Sister can count on and trust. I'm not here to solve her problems, but I am someone that can help provide a different perspective, lend a listening ear and just to share some of my experiences in navigating life, without judgement or preconceived notions on who she should be. I too learn and gain invaluable insights into my own self - it has helped me broaden my perspective, be less judgemental and have more empathy to understand the diverse societies we live in. Knowing that my Little Sister relies on me motivates me to prioritise my responsibiltiies and commitments. It is an honour to be a small part of my Little Sister's life and it has added meaning to my own life journey.
What can each of us do to support and uplift each other this International Women's Day and every day after that?
Always try to see beyond the surface of an individual or situation. Try to explore and understand the reasons why people behave or act a certain way. There is always more to the story underneath the surface. This way, we can reduce snap judgements and emotive reactions, and support each other in the areas that are most impactful.
Our Believe Necklace is inscribed with the mantra "I believe in all that I am and becoming", what does this message mean to you?".
To me, this message is a reminder that I am enough, I am whole, as I am. To remember to trust and be confident in my innate instincts. And I carry that trust within me, as I continue to explore my potential and ways to live an authentic and meaningful life.
What is your advice to our next generation of young women?
Seek out your community, people you connect with. Do not be afaid to ask for help, advice, guidance. There will always be other people willing and happy to support, help and mentor you. We've got each other's back and we've got you. You are not alone.
