Project Ready Mentor Success Stories
An Education and Youth Development Initiative
With over 3,000 youth served since 2011, the Project Ready Mentor program continues to provide the encouragement and inspiration students need to thrive academically, personally, and socially.
Below, read success stories from several Project Ready Mentor program mentees and mentors about the program's impact on their lives.
Indianapolis Urban League
Brother Jamaal Nelson is a distinguished veteran, Pan-African advocate, and community activist based in Indianapolis. His contributions to the community are vast and varied, reflecting his deep commitment to uplifting and educating others about Black culture and history. He is the creative mind behind several impactful projects, including the Knowledge of Self board game, which explores Black culture and history, the children's book "Melanin Comes with Power," the novel "Fist Full of Plight," and the documentary "Naptown Narrative," among others.
For the past ten months, Brother Jamaal has been a dedicated mentor with the Project Ready Program, providing invaluable guidance and support to his two mentees and the entire program. His role as a mentor has been instrumental in shaping the experiences and futures of the students he works with.
In February 2024, Brother Jamaal spearheaded a Black History Month project that was both educational and inspirational. This project aimed to deepen the understanding of Black History Month among Project Ready students, highlighting its significance and celebrating the influential Black men and women who have made substantial contributions to the Black community and history. His project was a powerful reminder of the Black community's rich heritage and enduring legacy.
Beyond his work on the Black History Month project, Brother Jamaal has been actively mentoring his mentee, Elijah, in developing a comprehensive game plan for his senior capstone project. This project focuses on community betterment, and under Brother Jamaal's guidance, Elijah has gained valuable insights and strategies to make a meaningful impact.
Brother Jamaal's dedication to the Project Ready Program and his mentees exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding mentor. His commitment to helping the youth grow and succeed is evident in his actions and the positive influence he has on those around him. Through his mentorship, Brother Jamaal has supported his mentees' personal and academic growth and reinforced the importance of community, culture, and history.
Brother Jamaal Nelson stands as a beacon of dedication, knowledge, and passion, embodying the true spirit of mentorship. His contributions continue to inspire and empower the youth and impact the community he serves.
Knoxville Area Urban League
My name is Arianna Lashel Dixson, and I joined the Project Ready Mentor National Achievers Society in 2020. When I first joined, it was the beginning of Covid-19, and I was a virtual learner. I was shy and known to most of my peers as someone who did not speak up in social settings, nor would I attend events alone. Instead of keeping this persona, I decided to try something new that would help with the socialization I was missing and encourage me to step out of my comfort zone. I joined the Project Ready Mentor National Achievers Society, and from the very beginning, it started changing my life.
I learned to speak up in a group in person or on Zoom calls. I enjoyed the different workshops that would help me in life and business, but I was more drawn to events involving children, as that is where my passion lies. As long as I can remember, I have wanted to become a pediatric nurse to help children. During Covid-19, I attended an event that involved being recorded while reading books to children. This was particularly impactful to me because when I first started school, I struggled with reading. I would memorize the books my parents read, but I couldn’t read them alone. I learned very early on the importance of a good book and thought doing this activity was a great idea when so many children were learning virtually.
Although the program inspired me in a lot of ways to speak up and to get involved in my local community, it also helped me try new things. In my senior year, I was involved in taking a photography class at school. I was asked if I would be interested in photographing the Community Health Day event so they could post it on their social media pages. I attended this event by myself, which was huge because I always participated in events with my two best friends, who were also in the program. I was able to learn so much about mental and physical health and know that I could stand strong even when I was by myself and didn’t know anyone. I had a fantastic experience, and this helped further confirm that I wanted to be involved in the healthcare industry and help others.
All my life, my mother told me you must try new things and step out of your comfort zone to succeed. I can say, today as a young black woman attending a 4-year university with a nationally recognized nursing program, I am glad I decided to join the Project Ready Mentor National Achievers Society. I would have never had the courage to move away from my family and go to a college that is 2.5 hours away. I am so excited about the journey ahead, and I appreciate everything that the Knoxville Area Urban League did for me during my three years of membership.
Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle
Meet Xavier, a high school junior whose life has been profoundly shaped by Urban League's Project Ready Mentor program. Recently matched with Shedrick, a Seattle native and HBCU graduate, their journey together soared to new heights during the National Urban League's 2023 Youth Leadership Summit.
Xavier reflects, "In the short time I've known Mr. Shedrick, he's had a bigger impact on me than some people I've known for years." Shedrick has guided Xavier to explore his interest in a career in construction, crafting a post-high school path that Xavier profoundly appreciates. “Mr. Shedrick is not only a mentor to me; he’s like family, and I can’t wait to continue to grow with him.”
Shedrick echoes Xavier's sentiment, noting Xavier's growth academically, mentally, and emotionally since their summer meeting. Shedrick envisions a bright future for Xavier, describing him as a critical leader in the school community. Once overlooked by other school staff, Xavier now checks in with Shedrick regularly. Shedrick's influence has redirected Xavier's high school experience toward positivity and growth. As Xavier looks forward to exploring careers and universities, we're excited to witness the continued growth of this dynamic mentor-mentee duo.
Springfield Urban League
Zhavier and Elijah’s mentoring relationship has been characterized by mutual trust and respect. Zhavier states, “As a mentor, I have strived to create a safe and supportive environment that encourages Elijah to take risks, explore new ideas, and embrace personal growth.” Working with Elijah’s parents to establish an open line of communication has enabled transparent discussions about Elijah’s goals, challenges, and progress. Spending time exploring Elijah’s interests and bonding over shared interests brings Zhavier great joy and satisfaction. “I’m in awe of his raw potential and talent. Encouraging him, motivating him, and giving him the confidence to chase his dreams is something I enjoy doing.”
Since joining the Project Ready Mentor program a year ago, 17-year-old student Deonna can now imagine a brighter future. “I feel more confident in life after I graduate, having received so much help from my mentor.” As participants in the program, students like Deonna have access to learning opportunities that encourage leadership, financial literacy, and volunteerism. They also have access to resources to support mental health and academic and social growth.
Deonna’s mentor Corey recalls his mentors' impact on him as a youth. “I remember tremendously being blessed by my selfless mentors. Now, I can apply much of what I benefitted from as a mentee.” Both Corey and Deonna agree that mentorship has positively affected their personal, academic, and professional development.