A Q&A with Bridge Builders’ Beck Mitchell

Beck Mitchell is the executive officer at the youth organisation Bridge Builders in Lilydale. Picture: SUPPLIED.

1. What is something people don’t know about you?

When I was a child I had a Shetland pony called Cujo

2. How long have you been involved with Bridge Builders?

I have been with BB for 17 years this April. I first started here as a young person who needed help and now I’m the Executive Officer. It’s been such an incredible journey.

3. What do you enjoy most about helping young people?

A mentor of mine once said to me “the best gift you can give in life is to leave a life changed” – I am blessed to be able to wake up everyday and be able to help young people, just like others did for me.

4. What has been one of your most memorable moments with the youth organisation?

That is such a difficult question, over 17 years there have been countless moments and opportunities that have honestly transformed my life – it would be hard to choose one. A few that come to mind are; when I was promoted to being the Operations Manager many years ago, the trip to America for leadership development, our World Series Jet Ski event in 2016, our 10 year UR Retreat alumni reunion and any moment when a young person has reflected that I have contributed to changing their life. And of course, the World Marathon Challenge that I completed in February 2020 – being able to complete such an extraordinary challenge and assist the youth at BB in the process is something that will stay with me for life.

5. What do you love most about the Yarra Ranges?

Being a runner, I love all the trails and paths around the shire, there is so many wonderful natural areas to explore.

6. What event, past, present, or future, would you like to witness?

The moon landing would have been amazing to witness, but I’m a big believer in ‘the best is yet to come’ so something in the future that hasn’t happened yet.

7. Which four guests, dead or alive, would you invite to a dinner party?

Queen Elizabeth II, Robin Williams, John Maxwell and Yoda.

8. Who do you admire the most?

I admire a lot of people, two of which would be Layne Beachley AO and Gillian Franklin.

9. What are some of your hobbies?

Running, playing a lot of sport, spending time with friends, going on adventures and always pursuing a better version of myself.

10. What is your favourite book and/or film?

Madagascar ‘mada-who-ha’ – I’m hoping you get the reference