Youth Mentorship is an important part of our programs. By focusing on mentorship, 902 Man Up is helping close gaps in opportunities, fostering empowerment, and creating a brighter future for racialized and less privileged Black youths.

Breaking the Cycle of Inequality: Our youth mentorship program provides guidance and opportunities that can help disrupt cycles of poverty, systemic discrimination, and limited access to resources. Mentors show young people pathways to success that might otherwise seem out of reach.

Role Models and Representation: Many racialized Black youth lack access to role models in leadership, professional, or creative spaces. Our mentorship connects them with relatable figures who have overcome similar challenges, inspiring confidence and ambition.

Educational Support and Guidance: Our mentors provide critical academic support, encourage educational attainment, and expose mentees to career paths they may not have considered.

Building Confidence and Self-Worth: Systemic racism and discrimination erodes self-esteem. Our mentors help youths recognize their strengths, build resilience, and develop a positive identity.

Skill Development: The mentorship program equips youth with life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and leadership, preparing them for future challenges.

Preventing Risky Behaviors: Access to our mentorship has reduced the likelihood of risky behaviors, such as dropping out of school, substance abuse, or involvement with the criminal justice system.

Community Empowerment: Investing in youth through our mentorship program will strengthen communities by developing future leaders who are committed to uplifting those around them.

How We Provide Youth Mentorship Services

Structured Mentorship Programs:

• Pairing youth with mentors based on shared interests, career goals, or lived experiences.
• Ensuring structured meetings with clear goals, whether academic, career-oriented, or personal development-focused.

Diverse Mentors:

• Actively recruit mentors from a range of fields and ensure representation of Black professionals to offer relatable role models.
• Provide mentor training to ensure they understand the challenges faced by racialized and less privileged youth.

Accessible Opportunities:

• We offer both in-person and virtual mentoring sessions to overcome logistical barriers.
• We partner with schools, community centers, and faith organizations to connect with youth who may benefit from the program.

Holistic Programs:

• We provide tutoring, career exploration, college application assistance, and life skills training alongside mentorship.
• We create safe spaces for discussions on race, identity, and navigating systemic challenges.

Foster Long-Term Relationships:

• We encourage mentors and mentees to build lasting bonds that extend beyond the formal program timeline.
• We create alumni networks to keep youth engaged and connected as they grow.

Financial and Material Support:

We offer stipends, scholarships, or resources like laptops and books to mentees who may face financial barriers to success.