Old Boys mentoring initiative to forge Iona men of purpose

Through a series of shared experiences, honest conversations, and consistent support, this program will encourage boys to step up, lean in, and begin shaping the men they are becoming – and allow you as an Old Boy to make a lasting impact on the life of a current Ionian.

FORGED: Men of Purpose, a structured mentoring program designed to help selected students build confidence, character, and a clearer sense of direction.

We are inviting members of the Old Boys community to be involved as mentors. This is not about having all the answers, but about being present, being authentic, and being willing to walk with a student who may benefit from the steady influence of someone who has journeyed a little further down the road.

We are especially grateful that this program has been funded by the Iona Old Boys Association. This generous support reflects the Association’s deep and ongoing commitment to giving back —to standing alongside the next generation of Ionians and helping them grow into young men of purpose, resilience and strength. It’s a powerful example of what it means to be part of a lifelong brotherhood.

At its heart, FORGED aims to help each young man realise that he has what it takes—that he is more capable, resilient, and purpose-driven than he may currently believe. By engaging with positive male role models who share their wisdom and walk beside them, these boys will forge strength through action and reflection.

We are inviting members of the Old Boys community to be involved as mentors. This is not about having all the answers, but about being present, being authentic, and being willing to walk with a student who may benefit from the steady influence of someone who has journeyed a little further down the road.

Program Overview

FORGED: Men of Purpose includes the following core components:

• Emu Gully Adventure Day – Saturday 12 July
  An outdoor, challenge-based experience focused on ownership, discipline, and contribution—setting the tone for the program by inviting students to lead and reflect.
• Mentoring Nights
  A series of guided sessions exploring themes of mindset, identity, and daily habits that shape a purposeful life:
  • Wednesday 23 July: Mastering Mindset
  • Wednesday 20 August: The Character Journey
  • Wednesday 17 September: Everyday Strengths
• Small Group Reflections
  Each night will include time for conversation in mentor-led small groups, fostering honesty, encouragement, and personal growth.
• Ongoing Connection
  Mentors will form consistent connections with their small group of current Ionians, offering perspective, accountability, and encouragement across the term.

The Commitment

We are looking for mentors who can commit to:

• Participating in the Emu Gully Day on Saturday 12 July
• Attending all three Mentoring Nights from 6pm–8pm at the College
• Offering steady, supportive presence throughout the program (no outside prep required—we’ll provide everything you need)

This is a powerful chance to give back by helping shape the future of Iona College—not through grand gestures, but through simple, meaningful relationships that speak volumes. Your presence could be the encouragement a young Ionian needs to believe in himself and take the next step in his journey.

If you’re interested in being involved, please register your Expression of Interest via the following link: https://forms.office.com/r/iaLctwuS9J