YP HI School Mentor Program

YP HI School Mentor Program

Funder: Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Young Professionals Program

Program Type: High school mentorship program

Target Participants: High school students (grades 9-12); young professional mentors

Geographic Scope: Statewide Hawaii (active on Oahu with expansion to other islands, including Maui)

Description: A mentorship initiative that pairs young professional mentors with high school students to provide hands-on mentorship and career guidance. Mentors help students with career exploration, academics, and post-secondary planning.

Program History:

Operating successfully on Oahu with 100+ student-mentor pairs

Pilot program launched on Maui in October 2024 with Maui High School

First Maui cohort (October 2024 - March 2025): 6 students matched with 6 mentors

Plans to expand to additional public high schools on Maui and other islands

Key Benefits for Mentees:

Career guidance and mentorship

Help with capstone projects

Resume building assistance

Scholarship and college application support

Business and financial planning guidance

Site visits and on-the-job training opportunities

One-on-one monthly 30-minute sessions

Professional networking with established leaders

Key Benefits for Mentors:

Opportunity to invest in Hawaii's youth

Give back to the community

Professional growth and leadership experience

Supporter: HMSA (Hawaii Medical Service Association)

Contact:

Lord Ryan Lizardo, VP of Education: lrlizardo@cochawaii.org

Maui Young Professionals interest: mauiyoungprofessionals@gmail.com