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Buddy Programme for Women

Connection comes first.
Women supporting women.

The Buddy Programme connects women with other women for peer support, connection, and confidence-building.

This is not tutoring or therapy. It is a human connection programme designed to reduce isolation and help women engage more fully in learning, skills training, and daily life.

Apply to join
Why connection matters

Support is the foundation of success

Many people face barriers that are not about ability. Isolation, lack of confidence, and unfamiliar systems can make it hard to start education or take next steps. When people feel supported and less alone, they are far more likely to engage, persist, and move forward.

Isolation and lack of confidence
Unfamiliar systems and barriers
Major life transitions
Online Track

Buddy Program for Women

A women-to-women buddy programme supporting women through connection and confidence. You meet online to talk, encourage, and help each other stay engaged.

What you do

You show up and have conversations. That's the core of it.

  • Meet your buddy online for regular check-ins
  • Listen without judgement
  • Encourage participation in language courses or skills programmes
  • Share your own perspective and experience
  • Help build confidence through consistent presence
  • Support during periods of transition or uncertainty
You are a peer, not a professional. The goal is connection, not instruction.

What you are not

Boundaries keep this programme safe and effective.

  • A teacher or tutor
  • A therapist or counsellor
  • A social worker or case manager
  • A recruiter or job placement agent

You do not provide professional, legal, or medical advice.

How it works

01. Sign up
Complete the volunteer application with your details and availability.
02. Get matched
We match you based on availability, language, and compatibility.
03. Connect
Agree on a rhythm. Meet online at times that fit your lives.
04. Support
Check in regularly. Consistency over intensity.

Details

Frequency Agree with your buddy. Many meet every 1-2 weeks.
Length Usually 30-60 minutes per session.
Location 100% online. Join from anywhere in the world.
Questions? Email volunteer@theeducationalequalityinstitute.org

Who this is for

  • A woman who wants to support other women
  • Willing to show up consistently
  • A good listener without judgement
  • Comfortable with video calls
  • Able to respect boundaries
You do not need professional training. Guidance is provided.
Apply to Join
Stories from Buddies

Women supporting women

Elena
Buddy Volunteer

I thought I needed to have all the answers. I realized she just needed someone to say 'You can do this' while she figured it out herself.

Sarah
Buddy Volunteer

It's a small time commitment, just an hour every other week, but the connection we've built feels very meaningful.

Safeguarding

Both tracks include clear safeguards. This is connection with boundaries. Safety matters.

Buddies must be 18 or older
TEEI reviews all applications before activation
Conduct guidelines provided during onboarding
For in-person meetings, start in public places
If something feels wrong, stop and contact us
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions

No. This is peer support, not professional practice. We provide onboarding and guidance. You bring consistency and care.
Most buddies meet every 1-2 weeks for 30-60 minutes. You and your buddy agree what works. Consistency matters more than frequency.
Whatever feels natural and useful. Daily life, goals, challenges, local tips, encouragement. There is no script. The focus is presence and connection.
Be honest about your limits. You are not expected to provide professional advice or solve problems outside the programme. Encourage them to contact appropriate services.
Let your buddy know as early as you can. Life happens. If you need to pause or stop, contact us and we will help manage the transition.
Yes. If the match is not working, tell us. We will help you find a better fit.
No. Many Ukrainians speak English. Informal language exchange can be part of the relationship, but it is not required.
No. Buddy matching is online and global. Norway events are an extra option for people who live there.
Yes. If you are in Norway, you can have an online buddy and attend local events.
Yes. We review applications, provide guidelines, and support you. For in-person meetings, start in public places. If anything feels wrong, stop and contact us.
After you apply and we review your details, we will match you when someone compatible is available. Timing varies depending on the programme.

Ready to start?

Whether you're looking for support or want to become a buddy volunteer, join our community of women supporting women.

Apply to Join

Questions? volunteer@theeducationalequalityinstitute.org