Some days, there is an excess of depressing news here. Too many killings, too much poverty, too many people in need. It can get to you, depending what you choose to focus on. So here is a positive story on a Monday morning for you:

Randy McLaren, otherwise known as the Kriativ Aktivis, was a Youth Opportunities Unlimited mentee when he was in high school. Here is what he said about how the experience benefited him:

“I was a mentee. Received all the training in things a peer counsellor should know. I developed sound life skills, became a better listener and was better able to assist my peers as a student leader. I also expressed the new knowledge via my creative talents. I was able to hone my skills as a positive change agent. Empowerment is key.”

Randy is now forging a successful path in the performance/entertainment industry. Check him out in this video performing at a recent YOU function.

I know from firsthand experience the benefits of the mentor/mentee relationship, having mentored several young people over the years. The cliche is true, I think, that it enriches the mentor more than the mentee. So it is nice to hear about the benefits from the other side of the equation, too. Have a great day!