Wayne Crawford
Mentor
Hi there! I’m Wayne, and it’s a pleasure to meet you.
With over 15 years of experience, I’m a passionate and creative mentor dedicated to helping neurodivergent young people unlock their full potential. I’ve had the privilege of working across various professional settings in the UK and abroad, including schools, libraries, museums, and universities. I believe that everyone has a unique strength that can lead to future success, and there’s nothing more fulfilling than watching a young person gain confidence as they discover their talents.
In my previous role as a School Learning Resource Manager and Youth Librarian, I worked with a wide range of young people, including those with Autism, ADHD, ADD, and other needs. I launched after-school gaming workshops to help neurodivergent students – and those with specific SEN needs – to build confidence, form social connections, and develop a love for reading in process. I also collaborated with SENCOs to provide a safe, supportive environment for students facing mental health challenges.
In my current role at the University of Nottingham, I continue to support neurodivergent young adults through virtual career mentoring programmes, employability talks, and career-focused podcasts. I’ve seen first-hand how these initiatives can transform lives by boosting confidence, enhancing skills, and promoting greater employability.
Beyond mentoring, I’m passionate about video editing – both professionally and recreationally through my YouTube channel which showcases my interests in cinema, TV and gaming. I also produce and edit a popular careers podcast on Spotify, and I’m always eager to share these editing skills with people wanting to start their own channels.
I’m fully DBS checked, trained in safeguarding, online safety, and GDPR/data protection. I am also certified as a Mental Health First Aider through MHFA England.
Favourite Games
I’ve been an avid gamer since I first picked up a Nintendo controller at age 5. I’m now the proud owner of every modern gaming console, including a MetaQuest VR headset. Some of my favourite games include the Final Fantasy, Metal Gear Solid, Persona, and Resident Evil series, as well as titles like Cyberpunk 2077, No Man’s Sky, Hogwarts Legacy, and The Witcher 3. I’m also a huge fan of most Mario, Pokémon and Sonic games, and have probably spent far too much time in online games like Helldivers 2 and Fortnite!
Hobbies
When I’m not gaming, I love traveling; I recently spent a month in Japan, including a visit to Super Nintendo Land. As a former librarian I also naturally love reading, with science-fiction and manga titles at the top of my reading pile. I also enjoy looking after my two adorable sausage dogs, Chewie and Zero, who are always happy to join our mentoring sessions upon request.
My Pets
My dogs Chewie and Zero
We'd love to hear from you.
If you would like our team to get in touch with you to discuss how we can help you and your young people through our services, please feel free to fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch as soon as possible to talk you through enrolling with one of our mentors or counsellors