I’ve had dozens of mentors in my life — coaches, teachers, even both of my parents. All who contributed in some way to who am I today. It’s not hyperbole to say that I’d be completely lost without their guidance, support, and modeling, and I am forever grateful for and appreciative of their impact on my life.

Today, though, in conjunction with the We Promise initiative spearheaded by Pittsburgh Public Schools – a program uniquely designed to support African-American male students by providing the resources they need to ensure they are prepared and eligible to receive a scholarship from The Pittsburgh Promise – I’d like to put a spotlight on three mentors who’ve had a unique role in shaping the adult me.

Although he was one of my college basketball coaches, the bond an 18-year-old me formed with Damone James has continued today, as our relationship has evolved from coach/player to friends. My freshman year was a whirlwind; a cacophony of noise, distractions, practice, and parties (with some actual classwork occasionally squeezed in). But Damone — who was on the coaching staff despite only being six years older than me — helped me right myself and show me what was necessary in order to successfully juggle the responsibilities of a student-athlete.

Heath Bailey is now a high school principal. But, before then, he was a dean of students at the school where I got my first teaching job. And, even before then, he was an older basketball buddy of mine — the type of guy hoopers affectionately refer to as “oldheads.” As an oldhead, Heath’s tough love as he and other oldheads gave my peers and I (“young bucks”) a hard time on the court eventually made me a better player. This relationship transitioned into a friendship, and when we started working at the same school, he helped ease my transition into the classroom and offered much needed guidance and support.

Last but certainly not least, no person has had more of a hand on what I do for a living than my cousin Sarah — who her thousands of internet fans and followers know better as Huny Young.  

A decade ago, Sarah introduced me to the concept of blogging, designed my first blog, and provided me access to her network of friends and influencers.

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Today, I write full-time, working as an editor at EBONY Magazine, an author, a contributing writer to several publications, and a founder of VerySmartBrothas.com. Sarah’s mentorship is a direct result of that.

Despite the well-founded positive impact mentors have in their lives of their mentees, there remains a mentor shortage — particularly with males. Having a male mentor is especially crucial for African-American boys, a population where a disproportionate amount of them are lacking the type of male guidance and support needed to help them achieve their dreams. The We Promise program is a multi-layered effort to provide these resources for those children. If you can help out in any way — as mentor or program supporter — please do. And please visit the We Promise website to meet some of the kids and mentors.

Mentors matter. And, if you have any doubt that they do, just ask me.