OluwaSegun – 20, Gay/He/Him, CisMan, Ghana
Mentorship Area: HIV/AIDS ADVOCACY & HEALTH ACTIVISM
In the journey of mentorship, there are pivotal moments and valuable lessons that shape not only one’s professional growth but also personal development. Reflecting on my experience with my mentor in the Zumizo Mentorship Program, I am reminded of the accessibility, approachability, and unwavering motivation that defined our partnership.
My mentor was more than just a guide; they inspired me. They encouraged me to reach my goals and provided the support and guidance needed to navigate the complex landscape of advocacy and activism. Their accessibility and approachability made it easy for me to seek their counsel and discuss any challenges or ideas that came my way.
Among the many lessons my mentor imparted, two pieces of wisdom stand out: “To make your voices heard” and “Leave a mark wherever you step.” These words echoed throughout the program as a constant reminder of the impact we, as advocates, can have on the world. These lessons were not just about speaking up but also about making a lasting impression through our actions.
A crucial component of our mentorship was the collaborative creation of a work plan. This plan served as a compass, guiding my mentor and me as we outlined our responsibilities and expectations. It also provided a roadmap for setting short-term and long-term goals for both parties. This collaborative approach fostered a sense of ownership and accountability, ensuring our mentorship was mutually beneficial.
My aspirations, the driving force behind my participation in the Zumizo Mentorship Program, revolved around HIV/AIDS advocacy and health activism. I envisioned a future where I would become a career activist dedicated to improving the health and well-being of LGBTQI+ individuals. Additionally, I aimed to expand my professional network, connect with like-minded individuals and organizations, and learn new methods and strategies for enhancing the health of LGBTQI+ persons.
Reflecting on the evolution of my goals throughout the program, I am struck by the transformation that has taken place. At the outset, my goals may have seemed modest, even to myself. However, the mentorship experience has been nothing short of an eye-opening opportunity. It has broadened my horizons, instilling in me the belief that I can achieve far more than I initially envisioned.
One of the most significant achievements during my time in the program was the collaborative effort of the activism team, which organized a webinar titled “Our Pride Isn’t Proud” on the last day of Pride Month. This event served as a platform to discuss important LGBTQI+ issues, shedding light on the challenges faced by the community in Ghana. It was an opportunity to empower marginalized groups, encouraging them to use their voices as tools for meaningful change.
The success of this initiative demonstrated the practical application of the skills and knowledge gained during the mentorship.
As the mentorship program has come to an end, my focus has shifted to the future. I plan to embark on a quest to elevate my level of expertise by learning from individuals in the same field who have achieved remarkable heights. I aspire to become even better at what I do, to make a more significant impact, and to create positive change within the LGBTQI+ community.
The Zumizo Mentorship Program has played an indispensable role in my personal growth, instilling confidence and helping me recognize my strengths and weaknesses. It has been instrumental in shaping my career, guiding me in identifying realistic goals, providing advice on planning for success, and offering continuous feedback and support.
In conclusion, this mentorship journey has empowered me to embrace my potential and drive positive change in HIV/AIDS advocacy and health activism. As I look ahead, I do so with purpose, armed with the knowledge and experiences gained during this remarkable mentorship program.
