Our Summer RISE Interns

MENTOR Maryland | DC is deeply committed to amplifying youth voices and championing youth advocacy within our communities. This summer, we were proud to host two exceptional Summer RISE interns who played a crucial role in shaping our organization’s future initiatives. Their work culminated in a preliminary report outlining the establishment of MENTOR Maryland | DC’s Youth Advisory Council, a transformative initiative aimed at ensuring that the perspectives and experiences of youth in Maryland and DC are integral to our strategic planning and decision-making processes.

The MENTOR MD|DC Youth Advisory Council will serve as a pivotal platform for young people to influence and inform our efforts across three core areas: advocating for systems-level change within the educational, juvenile justice, political, and economic and employment systems; enhancing the quality and quantity of mentoring programs across Maryland and DC; and promoting the inclusive message that mentoring is a vital resource for everyone. Through this initiative, we aim to foster a more equitable and responsive mentoring landscape, empowering youth to not only participate but lead in the creation of solutions that affect their lives and futures.

This August learn how you can Advocate! or visit MENTOR National’s Page

Meet Kaisha

Kaisha Joana Mondlane is an international student in High School, currently a senior. Originally from Mozambique, she is bilingual, speaking both Portuguese and English. Kaisha is undertaking an internship with MENTOR Maryland | DC, where she is contributing to the design of a statewide youth advocacy committee.

Meet Ebewak

Ebewak Tolessa is a High Schooler, entering her final year. Originally from Ethiopia, she speaks three languages: Afaan Oromo, Amharic, and English.

She has a strong passion for music, excelling in playing instruments and singing. Her dedication to the arts has been a significant part of her high school experience, allowing her to connect with others and express herself creatively.

She was excited to contribute to the design of a statewide Youth Advisory Committee as an intern. She’s eager to help shape the committee and empower her peers to have a voice in our community.