I wish I had a mentor when I was younger. I believe I would have gained a lot from the experience. I am a mentor to others and those who I mentor consistently have been very successful in their personal and professional lives. It is amazing the difference that leaders make in the lives of the persons that they influence. Although I am a mentor, I also seek mentorship from leaders in fields that interest me. It makes a difference. “When we invest in our youth, we create our own legacy!” Have you ever thought of mentoring a group of students? I have been a youth mentor for over 20 years. My husband and I created a scholarship program for my primary school in Jamaica. “The Doctor Bird Award” rewards students for excellence in education. It is awarded to the top three students in the school that scores 85% or higher in the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT). The Scholarship helps to pay for their tuition and school supplies. (There is a cost for tuition and school supplies, plus uniforms for public high schools in Jamaica.) -My Elementary School Students In Jamaica ?? – I love visiting the schools both in the U.S. and Jamaica and having open dialogue with these students. They always have interesting questions to ask me. If you can, consider taking the opportunity to mentor a young person. Adopt a class, a grade or an entire school. Need help mentoring these students? Ask your friends who are also role models to join you. You would be surprised how many friends will jump on board with you. It’s an opportunity for them to lead a group of individuals whose lives can be easily impacted by their involvement. High School Students In Their School’s Technical Program Research has shown evidence for the effectiveness of mentoring as an approach for fostering healthy development among youth. It is also expected that effectiveness would vary as a function of differences in both program practices and the characteristics of participating young people and their mentors. (Rhodes 2005) You never know when you’ll identify the opportunity to transform the future of a young person, but if you find yourself in a position to provide guidance, do not shy away from it. You would be surprised at how quickly they can pick up positive behaviors from a few mentorship sessions. There is so much that you can teach them. Embrace the possibility to make a difference in a young person’s life. Become a mentor and make a difference in a young person’s life. With courage and grace! Sincerely, Maxine @sincerelymaxine