Ben Koo was a mentee and through the impact of his mentoring relationship has become a mentor and Mentoring Coordinator at BBBS Calgary

Ben Koo’s was born in Hong Kong and raised in Calgary. Raised in a hardworking immigrant family, Ben often felt the weight of isolation and the sting of bullying at school. His childhood was marked by struggles that many face when balancing the demands of a new culture with the realities of growing up. However, his path took a significant turn at the age of 12, when he found solace in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Calgary.

Matched with a mentor named Renny, Ben’s world began to expand in ways he had never imagined. Renny introduced him to the thrills of golfing and snowboarding, activities that were entirely new to Ben. But beyond these adventures, Renny imparted invaluable life lessons about hard work, resilience, and the importance of higher education. These experiences and teachings instilled in Ben a sense of fun, freedom, and resilience, guiding him through his teenage years and beyond.

Inspired by Renny’s mentorship, Ben pursued Criminology at Mount Royal University, a testament to the lasting impact of Renny’s guidance.

But the story doesn’t end there. Ben’s journey came full circle when he returned to BBBS Calgary as an In-School Mentoring Coordinator. For over three years, Ben has been dedicated to giving back to the organization that once supported him.

In his role, Ben finds immense fulfillment in connecting with youth, particularly his mentee, Kaden. The bond they share is a reflection of the one Ben had with Renny. They share interests in cooking, gaming, and watching anime, activities that create a strong foundation for their relationship. Ben sees a lot of his younger self in Kaden, and he is committed to helping him embrace his true self, just as Renny did for him.

The joy and rewards Ben finds in his work are profound. From earning the trust of children to creating lasting memories, his role at BBBS feels less like a job and more like a calling. Ben’s story is a powerful testament to the transformative power of mentorship. It highlights how a positive mentoring relationship can not only change the life of a mentee but also inspire them to become a mentor themselves, continuing the cycle of support and empowerment.