“I wanted to be a part of the Big Brother Program as a Black Big mentor because I understand how impactful mentorship can be, especially for young Black youth navigating their identities, opportunities, and challenges. Growing up, I saw firsthand how having a role model—someone who looked like me and understood my experiences—made a difference in my confidence, aspirations, and sense of belonging. I wanted to be that presence for someone else, providing guidance, support, and encouragement.
Programs like the BCAC Program are critical in our community because they create spaces where young Black youth can see positive representations of themselves. It’s more than just mentorship; it’s about community, representation, and empowerment. It gives our youth access to guidance that reflects their lived experiences and provides them with the tools to navigate a world that may not always be designed with them in mind.
My relationship with Akira has been incredibly meaningful. It’s a two-way street—we learn from and impact each other in ways that go beyond mentorship. Whether it’s sharing stories, working through challenges, or celebrating milestones, our bond is built on trust, understanding, and mutual growth. Seeing Akira develop confidence, set goals, and embrace his strengths is a reminder of why these programs matter so much.
Celebrating Black History Month is another layer to this journey. It’s a time to honor our past, recognize our present, and inspire the future. Mentorship plays a huge role in that, because every interaction and every piece of guidance contributes to the ongoing story of Black excellence and resilience.”