I have a lot to be thankful for today and every day.  One of the reasons why I am thankful is the gift of friends and mentors.

Over the years, tens of people have played the role of "mentor" by encouraging me, speaking into my life, and helping to open doors of opportunity. These kind people have helped me become a better person today.

Some of them believed in me when I did not believe in myself.

Some of them saw my weakness, imperfections, and rottenness. But they took a chance on me.

They provided counsel and loved on me.

They made recommendations.

They encouraged me.

I will forever be grateful.

Today, I am standing on the shoulders of friends, mentors, and peers

I would not be where I am today without these kind souls.

One of the reasons why I started Develop Africa is to help do the same for others. One of the ways that we are doing this is by mentoring and counseling youths.

More than ever, today's youths need us who have gone ahead to put a little love in our hearts and provide a helping word of encouragement.

Mentoring helps young people go through challenging life transitions, including dealing with stressful changes at home, critical decision-making, problem-solving, or transitioning to adulthood.

Mentoring helps young people grow and become the best version of themselves.

Mentoring programs can positively affect the lives of vulnerable kids. Kids participating in mentoring programs demonstrate better school attendance, a higher likelihood of going on to higher education, and a better attitude toward school than non-mentored kids.

Participation in mentoring programs strengthens positive social attitudes and peer relationships, and kids in mentoring relationships have more trusting relationships and better communication with their parents.

Mentoring helps mentees overcome their internal challenges by guiding how they can remain confident while setting their goals.

Mentoring offers encouragement.

Mentoring helps youths make informed decisions.

Girls mentoring is the roadmap to narrowing the gap of gender inequality. 

The hope of getting there begins with asking someone who has been there.

So I am asking you today to join me in donating towards mentoring support.

Your donations will help cover transportation costs to group sessions, food, speaker honorariums, supplies, take-home gifts such as toiletries, mentee needs, counselor salaries, etc.

I hope you have a great holiday season with family and friends.

Make your Giving Tuesday or year-end donation at the following GlobalGiving link: https://www.globalgiving.org/fundraisers/mentoring-empowers

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Thanks so much

Sylvester

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