Mentor Spotlight: Ray Calver

At Upside, our mentors bring passion, energy, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of young people. This month, we’re spotlighting Ray Calver—a mentor who embodies what it means to give back, embrace adventure, and spread aroha wherever he goes.

Ray has always been a people person, thriving in environments where he can support and enjoy life with friends, family, and the young people he mentors. His journey has taken him to work in many different industries and travel many continents, shaping his purpose along the way.

After spending a year volunteering in India, Vietnam, Peru, and Guatemala, Ray returned to New Zealand with a newfound clarity—he wanted to dedicate his life to helping others. This led him to train as a social worker, a role he has now embraced for nearly 15 years. For Ray, this work isn’t just a job; it’s his calling.

In 2023, Ray embarked on an unforgettable adventure, sailing through the Caribbean with his friend Marcel. Despite having no prior sailing experience, he jumped at the opportunity—something he encourages everyone to do.

“If anyone ever asks you if you want to go sailing, even if you can’t sail, say yes, and learn,” he says. 

The month-long journey took him through eight different countries, creating memories to last a lifetime.

However, not long after Ray returned home, tragedy struck—Marcel suffered a severe accident and broke his neck. This was an exceptionally challenging time but gave Ray the opportunity to be not only step up as his friend but also to be his advocate and caregiver. Ray feels blessed that his friend survived and that he can now support him.     

 Beyond his professional and mentoring roles, Ray is well-known as the ‘Free Hugs Guy’ at Splore music festival, a title he has proudly held for nearly a decade. Spreading energy and connection, he estimates giving out over 500 hugs per weekend at the festival. It’s moments like these that fuel his passion for life and connection.

Ray has been an Upside mentor for eight years, now mentoring his second mentee, Kelso. He cherishes the weekly time spent together, knowing he plays a small but meaningful role in their journey. 

“Being a mentor is a special experience,” he shares. “In some small way, I get to be a part of who they grow into."

For Ray, life is about embracing every moment and finding joy in all he does. “If it’s fun, I’m interested,” he says. That enthusiasm carries through in his mentoring, his work, and his adventures.

Thank you Ray, for the energy, care and aroha you bring to the Upside Community.  Your dedication inspires us all!