My’Jalon, a high school student in Denver, is not just a participant but a living embodiment of Mentor Life, the belief that you should always have someone investing in you, and also be invested in someone else. Engaged in both sides of mentoring, My’Jalon is a Little in Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado’s Community Mentoring Program while also serving as a Mentor in the STARS initiative.
The STARS program, short for Students Teaching About Relationships and Success, pairs high school students like My’Jalon with middle school students, offering guidance and support in navigating various aspects of life.
Reflecting on his experience as a mentor, My’Jalon shares insights that underline the importance of empathy and connection. “My experience as a mentor has shown to me that regardless of how old my mentee may be they have feelings and emotions and it is important to communicate and check in because I can have a big impact in my mentees life. Even just by talking and doing small activities with them I can help them have a positive mindset.”
In the Community Mentoring Program, My’Jalon has enjoyed getting to socialize and participate in different activities. “Being a Little has opened up opportunities to experience things with my Big that I may not have been able to experience due to financial hardships. My Big has also been a motivator at times when I was afraid to socialize.”
To My’Jalon, mentoring isn’t just a role but a way of life rooted in courage, dedication, and compassion. “I would say that mentoring means being mindful of another individuals boundaries and encouraging them to pursue their dreams and goals and helping them strive for a better life. It is about being kind and willing to listen so that you can be the light in that persons life. They should know there is someone who cares about them and wants the best for them even if they may not think that for themselves.”
My’Jalon’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of mentorship, showcasing how simple acts of kindness and mentorship can create ripple effects of positivity and empowerment in both the mentor and the mentee’s lives.