Black Mentorship Initiative
The AMS Social Issues Commission is excited to announce the launch of a new Black mentorship initiative in partnership with local schools in Kingston! In collaboration with the Queen’s Black Academic Society, Queen’s Black Clubs Caucus, Yellow House and campus administration, this initiative reflects a shared commitment from all parties to strengthening connections between campus and community!
The Aim
The Black Legacy Mentorship Program pairs Black identifying Queen’s students with Black identifying high school students across Kingston, creating space for guidance and mentorship but most importantly meaningful intergenerational connection. The goal is simple but powerful: to support Black youth as they navigate academic pathways, post-secondary decisions and future aspirations, all the while ensuring they feel seen, supported and affirmed in their environment.
Last week, we proudly hosted the program’s inaugural session. Bringing together student leaders, community partners and university collaborators, the first gathering focused on building trust, and finding pathways to connection in order to establish a strong foundation of belonging, marking an important step in strengthening ties between Queen’s University and the broader Kingston Black community.
What’s coming this semester
Throughout the second semester, mentors and mentees will take part in three group sessions centered on culturally affirming dialogue, community-building activities and shared meals. These spaces are intentionally designed to celebrate Black identity and encourage open conversation with the aim of cultivating supportive networks that extend beyond the classroom! Food, storytelling and collective reflection will all serve as key pillars of engagement for this initiative.
A core belief is that the Black Legacy Mentorship Program represents more than a simple mentorship: it represents investment. Investment in representation. Investment in community care. Investment in the next generation of Black leaders. By creating structured and culturally grounded opportunities for connection, we aim to empower Black youth to make informed decisions about their futures with confidence and knowledge that they have a community standing behind them.
We are deeply grateful to our campus and community partners who made this initiative possible. Together, we are building bridges, strengthening relationships, and reaffirming our collective commitment to equity, belonging and growth.
For students interested in getting involved or learning more, stay tuned for upcoming opportunities and updates from the AMS Social Issues Commission!
By: Lina Rhissa
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