I wouldn't expect compensation if someone is sincere in wanting to learn and shows ability.

As Confucius said: If I hold up 3 corners of a square and the student does not hold up the 4th, I do not go over the point again.

I have plenty of younger friends who I mentor in terms of basic life/career coaching and I don't really expect anything in return.

Even if it's free (and so far it seems like it's not and mostly freelancers looking for clients), I think it's a great idea to have something like this to help the next Hardy/Ramanujan find each other.

Many are willing to share advice, independently of the value that doing so provides. Usually the degree to which it is heeded quickly tempers the quantity (and perhaps quality) that is shared.