Imagine growing up in a world where you never saw examples of what you could become. Where your perception of possibility was shaped only by what you saw around you — not by what could be.
Maybe you never had to wonder about that because you grew up seeing people who looked like you in every role, every industry, every position of power. But for many Black and Brown youth, that’s not the reality.
Representation is not just important — it has the power to change lives. Though we’ve come a long way, inequalities persist, and there is still work to be done to ensure Black and Brown communities have the opportunities they need to thrive. It starts with investing in our youth.
100 Black Men of Phoenix (The 100) is on a mission to change this by providing mentorship and educational programming for young people of color in Phoenix. The organization serves as a beacon of representation, offering role models, showcasing successful Black and Brown leaders and illustrating a vision of what is possible.
As an organization, we advocate for men and women of color to mentor Black and Brown youth because mentorship plays a vital role in breaking down systemic barriers in education and employment while also fostering confidence, self-worth and cultural pride.
One primary way that mentorship can have an impact on Black and Brown communities is by bolstering the work of education institutions. The truth is, Black and Brown students are twice as likely to attend chronically underfunded schools in underfunded school districts, limiting their access to resources and opportunities.
These disparities widen the opportunity gap, making it harder for students to meet academic standards and compete in the workforce. Without intervention, they risk being undervalued by authorities in higher education or potential employers. Mentorship can help break down those barriers by offering guidance, career coaching, and networking — resources that open doors to opportunities that might otherwise remain out of reach.
Beyond the educational barriers, many young people also face systemic challenges in employment, often limiting their opportunities before they even begin. As a society, it’s imperative that we recognize the importance of breaking the cycle of economic disparities, which have persisted for generations.
While systemic change takes time, mentorship offers an immediate and accessible solution to help close the racial wealth gap. By providing students with career coaching, professional development and networking opportunities, mentorship empowers Black and Brown youth to succeed. These resources not only equip individuals with the tools to thrive but also contribute to the broader economic prosperity of our community.
Mentorship can strengthen the workforce, create economic opportunities and enrich our city by cultivating a new generation of leaders who will drive positive change and contribute to our collective growth.
Arguably, one of the most important roles of mentorship is providing social and emotional support — a crucial resource for Black and Brown youth facing these challenges. This meaningful support is something anyone in a position of privilege can offer.
Many Black and Brown youth face disproportionate rates of discrimination, community violence and mental health challenges. For these young people, mentors can offer the guidance and emotional resilience they may not receive at home. By serving as a stable support system, mentors build confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging — critical factors in helping youth navigate both personal and professional challenges.
Whether through volunteering, donating or mentoring to someone in our communities, each of us has a role to play in empowering the next generation. I invite you to get involved — whether with our organization or with others — because together we can make lasting change for future generations in Phoenix and beyond.
Editor’s note: Rabbanni FurQaan of Tempe is president of 100 Black Men of Phoenix. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
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