Helping Mentors Take The First Step: Louisa Joins TKN

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Name: Louisa
Role: Volunteer Recruitment Officer
Team: Volunteer Recruitment
Joined TKN: 2026
Fun fact: Loves a Sunday market coffee stop

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Behind every mentoring match at TKN is a series of thoughtful conversations, careful preparation and someone who believes deeply in the power of volunteering.

Louisa is now at the heart of that process.

As our new Volunteer Recruitment Officer, she supports prospective mentors from their very first interaction with TKN, helping transform curiosity into commitment, and commitment into connection.

Louisa joins TKN with a strong belief in the power of volunteering and community. Before joining us, she worked at NYU London, supporting students through their study abroad experience. Most recently, she led on restarting and coordinating the university’s volunteering programme, working closely with London charities and helping students connect with their local communities in meaningful ways.

That experience shaped how Louisa thinks about volunteering – not just as something people give, but as something that creates connection on both sides. So, when she came across the role at TKN, it immediately stood out.

“I was really excited by the idea of working somewhere that makes such a clear, tangible difference in children’s lives, and where volunteering is so central to that impact.”

What really drew Louisa in was TKN’s child-led approach. The way children shape their own mentoring journey, and how their voices are centred throughout the programme, resonated deeply with her.

“I love that children are listened to and trusted to lead their own sessions. It feels empowering, and it feels respectful – which is exactly how children should be treated.”

Growing up in London herself, Louisa reflects on how formative it was to explore the city as a child. She’s mindful that many of the children referred to TKN don’t always have access to the same opportunities – and that mentoring can play a powerful role in changing that.

“Mentoring gives children the chance to try new things, discover new places and start to feel that the city belongs to them too.”

In her role, Louisa is often the first person a volunteer speaks to. From reviewing applications and holding interviews, to preparing volunteers for training and supporting them as they begin their mentoring journey, she plays a vital role in shaping that early experience.

She’s particularly excited about speaking with prospective mentors and learning what motivates them to get involved, as well as finding new ways to reach people across London who might not yet realise that mentoring is something they could do.

Since joining TKN, Louisa has been struck by the warmth and openness of the team. She’s noticed how collaborative the culture is, how generously knowledge is shared, and how strongly everyone is united around the same purpose.

One moment that’s really stayed with her so far was reading TKN’s long-term impact report. Seeing the difference mentoring makes over time helped bring the work to life in a powerful way.

“It really showed me that mentoring isn’t just about what happens week to week. It can have a lasting impact on how children see themselves and their futures.”

Louisa is especially passionate about TKN’s focus on early intervention. Supporting children at a key stage, before confidence is knocked or self-belief fades, can make a huge difference.

“Having one consistent, reliable adult at that point can be incredibly powerful. It helps children build a foundation that stays with them as they grow.”

Looking ahead, Louisa is excited to be joining TKN at a time of growth. For her, reaching more children starts with reaching more volunteers – and helping people see that mentoring is something they can do, just by being themselves and showing up consistently.

“You don’t need to be an expert. You just need to be willing to listen, be curious, and spend time together. Those small, consistent moments really add up.”

Outside of work, Louisa enjoys cooking, reading, spending time with friends and exploring new coffee spots. She lives near Victoria Park and loves visiting at the weekend, especially when the Sunday market is on.

Reflecting on her first weeks at TKN, Louisa shared something that feels like a perfect summary of both her role and the heart of the organisation:

“This job has reminded me that small acts can have a really big impact. Showing up, listening and caring can change the course of a child’s life in ways you might not even realise at the time.”

We’re so excited to have Louisa on board and can’t wait to see the impact she’ll make as she helps welcome the next generation of mentors into the TKN community – and, in turn, helps more children feel confident, curious and supported.

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