What Can Disney Teach Us About Mentoring?
Stories | July 25th, 2023
Disney’s magic of storytelling has been a part of childhoods for generations, and it's no secret that many of them have themes of mentoring woven into their narratives. From the classic tales of Cinderella and Snow White to the newer stories of Moana and Elsa, Disney has consistently shown the importance of mentorship and the impact it can have on our lives. In this blog post, we'll explore a few Disney movies that showcase the power of mentoring.
The Lion King
The Lion King is a classic Disney movie that tells the tale of Simba, a young lion who must overcome adversity and take his rightful place as King. One of the most significant factors in Simba's journey is the guidance he receives from his mentors, Timone and Pumbaa. Both characters provide Simba with the knowledge and support he needs to become a strong and confident leader.
"The past can hurt. But the way I see it, you can either run from it, or learn from it."
-The Lion King
Mulan
Mulan is a story about a young woman who disguises herself as a man to join the army and protect her family. The movie is a testament to the power of mentorship and the importance of believing in oneself.
Throughout the movie, Mulan receives guidance and support from her mentor, the wise-cracking dragon, Mushu. Mushu may not be the most traditional mentor, but he provides Mulan with the knowledge and confidence she needs to succeed. He encourages her to embrace her unique strengths and to believe in herself, even when others doubt her abilities.
“The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of them all.”
-Mulan
Moana
Moana tells the story of a young girl who sets out on a journey to save her island and her people. Along the way, she is guided by Maui, a demi-god who helps her navigate the challenges she faces.
Maui teaches Moana about the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to oneself. He helps her understand the value of teamwork and shows her that she can accomplish great things if she believes in herself and her abilities.
Frozen
Frozen is a story about sisterhood and the power of love. It tells the tale of two sisters, Elsa and Anna, who are forced to confront their fears and rediscover their bond after years of separation.
Throughout the movie, Anna is guided and mentored by Kristoff, a rugged ice harvester who teaches her about the importance of perseverance and the value of following one's heart. He helps her navigate the challenges she faces and encourages her to stay true to herself, no matter what.
Jiminy Cricket
Who remembers Jiminy Cricket? Well Jiminy Cricket, is possibly the ultimate mentor! This little green dude was more than just a talking cricket - he served as a guiding light and wise advisor for none other than Pinocchio.
He certainly had his work cut out for him though, as we all know Pinocchio had a habit of stretching the truth a little. Jiminy Cricket believed in the power of dreams and always encouraged Pinocchio to follow his heart, make the right choices, and become the best version of himself. A well known quote was : “If your heart is in your dreams, no request is too extreme!”
The Power of Mentoring
Disney movies have always shown the power of mentorship and the impact it can have on our lives. Whether it's the guidance and support of Timon and Pumbaa in The Lion King, or the encouragement and wisdom of Mushu in Mulan, these movies remind us that we are stronger when we have someone to guide us along the way.
At Upside, we're all about making a difference. We believe that mentorship is the key to unlocking a young person's potential and fostering their dreams. Whether you have a penchant for storytelling, love sharing recipes like Ratatouille, or possess the wisdom of a wise old owl (like Merlin), your unique skills and experiences can have a profound impact on a young person's life.
So, how can you embark on an incredible mentoring adventure? It's simple! Contact Upside today to find out more about the rewarding and magical experience of becoming a mentor. We'll guide you through the process, match you with a young person who shares your passions and interests, and support you every step of the way.
Credit Disney images and quotes obtained from : https://news.disney.com/the-15-most-important-disney-quotes-according-to-you.