The moment that pushed me into action came at the age of 15 when I personally faced a profound mental health crisis. Going through that experience, I realized the critical need to share the message of youth mental resilience with other black boys who were battling similar challenges. Now, at 17, I've transformed my personal journey into a message of hope and inspiration for others. 

Despite a challenging mental crisis in 2021, where I was prematurely diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, my focus has shifted to empowering black boys to heal and find their voice through storytelling, expression, and reading. I firmly believe that knowledge is power, and I aim to inspire young black boys, letting them know that mental and emotional setbacks don't have to define their future potential. 

Having personally recovered and even becoming an eleventh-grade author, motivational speaker, and mental health advocate, my book, "Don't Quit, This is Not the End," shares my story and offers mindfulness tips to help black boys cope with mental health challenges. I'm determined to grow and expand my literacy program to help black youth boys openly and honestly express their thoughts, feelings, and struggles related to mental illness, anxiety, and depression. My goal is to create change and let my peers know that recovery is possible for black boys facing mental health difficulties.

The problem the Youth Literacy Empowerment Project addresses is the combination of literacy and mental health challenges faced by black boys in our community. This issue is deeply important to me because I firmly believe that every young person, regardless of their racial or socioeconomic background, should have the opportunity to thrive and succeed. Witnessing my peers struggle with academic setbacks and emotional distress due to insufficient support is concerning.

Solving this issue is vital for our community because it not only improves the educational outcomes and mental well-being of young black boys but also promotes understanding and empathy within society. The EmpowerME program serves as a safe space where black boys can enhance their literacy skills and address their emotional needs. By connecting with their cultural identities, it sparks motivation and engagement in reading and reduces the stigma around seeking help for mental health challenges.

EmpowerME aims to empower these young black boys, reconnect them with their community, and challenge the current narrative that boys should suffer in silence. With relatable mentors and involvement in service projects, this initiative creates a supportive network that comprehends their unique challenges, leading to improved academic performance and enhanced mental well-being for youth black boys.
 

Currently, through partnership with a 501 c3 nonprofit mentorship called Boys Matter 2 Men, I am co-leading a 6-week youth Mental Empowerment Book Club for boys ages 8-18. 
EmpowerME is the next phase of this Program Collaboration that I will be launching: 

12-week Program Overview:

1. Book Selection and Reading Program:
   A recommended book reading list will accompany the core book "Don't Quit" for youth aged (7-11) & (12-17), promote discussions and insights & provide a structured reading program to encourage consistent reading habits.
2. Interactive Discussions and Workshops:
   10 Weekly interactive workshops will focus on mental health, resilience, and cultural awareness through open discussions, skill building, and guest speakers.
3. Author Interaction and Mentorship:
   Sessions will be arranged for youth to interact with the author to provide mentorship by inspiring them to express themselves through their own narratives.
4. Community Building and Outreach:
   Online social media platforms will be created; Collaboration with local schools, libraries, and youth organizations for widespread participation.
5. Promoting Literacy and Mental Wellness:
   Collaborations with mental health professionals 
6. Community Projects and Service Events:
   Final 2-weeks -Youth will engage and lead a literacy book fair & community book drive project to instill social responsibility.

The success of the EmpowerME Youth Literacy Empowerment project is built on several key factors. 
First, it has established community partnerships, utilizing mentorship as a powerful tool to promote literacy, mental health, and resilience. This collaboration helps ensure that the project is well-connected and leverages the strengths of the community.

EmpowerME takes a comprehensive approach by focusing on cultural identity, community service, life skill development, and personal responsibility. These elements together create a well-rounded youth program that addresses the challenges faced by young black boys.

The project's success will include measurable outcomes and be an evidence-based program, including data collection through surveys and interviews, ensuring that its impact can be measured and validated. This data-driven approach provides valuable insights to guide future improvements and adaptations.

The 6-week book club intends to boost reading and literacy interest, enhance mental health awareness, and encourage self-expression and creativity by building a supportive community and fostering a sense of belonging through community service adds a holistic dimension to the initiative.

This project aspires to leave a lasting, positive impact on youth boys, equipping them with the tools to overcome challenges and make positive choices, reinforces its setup for success.

The Youth Literacy Empowerment Project provides a safe space for youth black boys struggling with mental health issues but it also serves as an inspiration for those most affected by the problem. By offering a platform for youth black boys to share their voices and change the narrative surrounding mental health challenges, this project empowers them to advocate for their needs and access the necessary support.  Which encourages them to experience success rather than struggle.

Moreover, the initiative also influences the community by shedding light on the specific stressors and challenges faced by black youth, educating readers about prevalent youth mental health conditions, and offering practical strategies to combat them. It fosters a compassionate and supportive environment for youth and inspires them to advocate for their mental and emotional well-being within their community, school, and homes.

Looking ahead, the project aspires to expand its reach beyond the local city, empowering more youth to rise above adversity, motivating them to share their journeys, and ultimately decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health. By leading discussions and providing tools for self-care practices, this initiative not only inspires those most affected but also influences others to take action in addressing the critical issue the mental health of youth black boys.