Let’s talk about something that can completely transform the climbing world: mentorship. Specifically, the power of mentorship in bouldering communities. Bouldering is such a unique space—it’s social, collaborative, and full of opportunities to learn. But what really takes it to the next level is when climbers actively lift each other up, and that’s where mentorship comes in.

Mentorship in bouldering isn’t about being an expert or having all the answers. It’s about sharing what you know and helping others grow, both as climbers and as members of the community. Think about how intimidating it can be to walk into a gym for the first time, surrounded by people who seem like they’ve been climbing forever. A mentor bridges that gap. They’re the person who shows you how to read a problem, teaches you about proper footwork, or just reminds you that falling is part of the process.

The beauty of mentorship is that it works in all directions. It’s not just experienced climbers guiding beginners—it’s about learning from each other. Even if you’ve been climbing for years, mentoring someone new can give you fresh perspectives. Watching a beginner tackle a problem with creativity or fearlessness can inspire you to approach your own climbing in a different way. It’s a two-way street, and that’s what makes it so powerful.

For underrepresented groups in climbing—whether that’s people of color, women, or anyone who doesn’t fit the traditional mold of what a climber “looks like”—mentorship can be especially important. Having someone who understands your unique challenges and supports you through them makes all the difference. It’s not just about beta; it’s about belonging. A mentor can help you navigate the microaggressions, the stares, or the moments of doubt that can come with being “the only one” in a space. And they can remind you that you’re not alone, even if it feels like it sometimes.

Mentorship also builds stronger communities. When people feel supported, they’re more likely to stick around. They’re more likely to invest in the space, bring others into it, and help it grow. It creates a ripple effect. One act of mentorship leads to another, and before you know it, you’ve built a network of climbers who are not just focused on their own progress but on lifting everyone up.

Here’s the thing: you don’t have to be a pro climber to be a mentor. Maybe you’ve been climbing for a couple of months and just learned how to top out. Share that knowledge with someone who’s struggling with the same thing. Maybe you’ve figured out how to manage your fear of falling—talk about it with someone who’s nervous about trying a new problem. Mentorship isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about showing up and being willing to help.

And for those of us looking for mentors, don’t be afraid to ask for guidance. Most climbers are eager to share what they know because we all remember what it was like to start out. The more we normalize seeking and offering mentorship, the stronger our community becomes.

At its core, mentorship in bouldering is about connection. It’s about building relationships, sharing experiences, and creating a culture where everyone feels they can grow and thrive. That’s the kind of community I want to be part of—and I know I’m not alone in that. So, let’s keep climbing, together.