For just over a year, Jamillia and her mentee have shared a journey of growth, connection, and mutual support through the PRISM youth mentorship program. PRISM was launched in 2022 and is designed to provide 2SLGBTQ+ youth aged 6-24 with affirming mentors who understand and share their experiences, especially in the intersection of race, gender, and sexual identity.
For Jamillia’s mentee, mentorship was a crucial step in seeking additional support and a deeper connection to their Black and 2SLGBTQ+ identity. They sought someone who could understand their lived experiences and support them in exploring and embracing who they are. In Jamillia, they found more than just a mentor; they found a friend, a confidante, and someone who shared their love for all things nerdy. Whether attending Rainbow D&D events, playing video games, or going shopping together, the pair have built a bond that transcends the typical mentor-mentee relationship.
The intentional matching process of PRISM ensured that Jamillia and her mentee were aligned not only in interests but also in values. This alignment has been evident from the start, with their shared humour, identity, and experiences creating a strong rapport and trust. Observers at PRISM events often note the whispers and giggles that follow them, a testament to the deep connection they have forged.
Jamillia’s journey as a mentor has been transformative, not just for her mentee, but for herself as well. As she reflects on her year of mentorship, she shares, “My experience as a mentor has been more than I could’ve expected. I’ve always wanted to be a mentor with Big Brother and Big Sisters but I never imagined I could do it for queer youth. Within a year, my mentee and I have bonded. We’ve grown to know and understand each other better and we refer to ourselves as Sisters, which warms my heart. I’m so glad this program exists because it’s exactly what I needed and would’ve benefited from growing up. It’s amazing to see the ways you can have an impact on your mentee’s life, it’s been a privilege to be a part of their life and journey of independence and self-discovery. Being a mentor requires you to hold space for your mentee in a way, I didn’t expect but my coordinator has been phenomenal in validating my experience and helping me through any tough moments. I am beyond happy that I followed my dream of being a mentor because having my mentee in my life has also done wonders for me and my inner child.”
As Jamillia celebrates her one-year mentorship anniversary, her story is a shining example of the profound impact that mentorship can have. Through the PRISM program, both mentors and mentees grow, learn, and discover more about themselves and each other. Jamillia’s experience highlights the importance of providing 2SLGBTQ+ youth with mentors who not only understand but share their experiences, creating a safe and supportive environment for both personal and collective growth.
Learn more about PRISM, and how you can create a profound impact in a young person’s life.
