This month, we’re chatting with Somto, who started out as a mentee on our SW!TCH programme and now works as a Junior Outreach Development Worker, supporting young people across East London.
Setting the scene
My name is Somto, I’m 18, and studying dentistry. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. The course is 5 years long—you need a lot of commitment and there’s a shortage of dentists in the UK.
I live in Dagenham and I’m from a big family: I have three siblings and I’m the third eldest. My oldest brother studied computer science and my older sister did sports science.
What are you currently up to?
Other than studying, I have two jobs, one at LifeLine and the other at McDonald’s. I’m a hard worker—that came from my mum; she’s always worked really hard. Her principles are all about hard work. I’m also lucky that she took an interest in my school studies.
What made you want to become a SW!TCH Ambassador?
At first, I was a mentee before becoming an Ambassador. My mentors set a real example of what it’s like to help people. And I was drawn to doing the same thing. I also thought it would look good on my CV.
I really enjoyed my role as an Ambassador. Then, later on, I saw the Junior Outreach Development Worker role advertised and everyone told me to apply. I was excited when I got the role. My mum was happy as long as it didn’t affect my studies.
Life before SW!TCH
Before joining SW!TCH, what was life like for you?
I had recently lost my father. I was 13 and didn’t really know how to deal it with it. The school could tell that I wasn’t handling it well as my grades were going down.
If I wasn’t offered some support, it could have got worse. Young people don’t really know how to talk about loss.
There was an instance where I had a fight with a guy who had a knife and the police got involved. My mum was really worried. She told me to be careful who I got involved with. She was right and I decided to change the people around me. My mentor was a great help.
Personally, I’m lucky that I never got injured. I knew other people who’ve got injured. If you get hurt, the natural response is to hit back. But I was never in that place.
Looking back, what do you think led you to a turning point?
When I got my GCSE grades, they weren’t that good. That’s when I thought I need to turn my life around so I focussed on my A-Levels. I started taking life seriously.
I don’t think enough 16-year-olds do take life seriously and its just getting worse now. Being part of a gang or taking drugs gets glorified in the media. You never see the reverse image or how hard work pays off. I wish it was the opposite.
The SW!TCH experience
The school put me in touch with LifeLine and the SW!TCH programme. They thought it would be a good fit.
The first support I got from my mentor was about dealing with my emotions. I spoke to my mentor for an hour every day.
Was there a moment during mentoring that really stuck with you or helped shift your mindset?
It was when I was told that I could achieve whatever I wanted. No one had ever told me that in the school system. I wish schools did more positive affirmation.
I always knew that I had my mentor’s support. Them believing in me really helped me.
How do you think you’ve changed since first joining SW!TCH?
I’ve become a lot calmer and less emotional when dealing with issues now, more resilient—pushing through even if there is an obstacle and getting through that process.
Helping others
What does being a Junior Outreach Development Worker mean to you?
It’s about being able to help talk to young people, helping them and being a benefit to them.
It makes me feel good to give other young people support just like I was given. I think it’s about giving back to the community.
What message would you give to someone going through similar challenges?
There’s a light at the end of the tunnel—take small steps, ’cause you can’t just jump to the end right away.
Looking ahead
Where do you see yourself in the future?
I’m going to get my degree, my first dentistry job, and ultimately, get my own practice and buy a property.
I wish to be able to provide for my family and to be a father for my kids—something I sadly didn’t have in my late teens.
If you could tell your younger self one thing, what would it be?
“Your father is looking down on you and everything you’re going to achieve will make him proud.”