"O Captain, My Captain"

Last week I was in an interview with a candidate for the Instituto Semear mentoring program and during the conversation, I was questioned if I want to ask the candidate something in addition, and I couldn't. I was completely astonished by all the challenges that she had overcome without any support and started to wonder what she could do with some directions and people taking care of her.

Volunteering as a youth mentor is a transformative journey of self-discovery that has a profound and lasting impact on society. By guiding young people to become the best versions of themselves, we can ignite a fire of passion within them that drives them to pursue their dreams and unlock their full potential, even in the face of societal expectations and challenges, as I was previously mentioning, mainly in countries with substantial social and economic gaps and basic human needs, such as Brazil, where I'm a volunteer.

The film "Dead Poets Society" serves as an inspiring testament to the impact of mentoring young people. The charismatic Professor John Keating embodies its central message of "Carpe Diem," or seizing the day. He empowers his students to embrace every moment, resist mediocrity, and chart their own path in life, even if it means defying societal norms. The iconic phrase "O Captain, My Captain" represents the students' reverence and gratitude towards Professor Keating, who unlocks their potential and inspires them to live boldly.

These artistic references illustrate the immense significance of being a youth mentor. Through our guidance, we can empower young people to see the world through a new lens and seize every opportunity that comes their way. We can instill in them the courage and determination to pursue their dreams, even in the face of adversity. And by doing so, we can leave an indelible mark on their lives, igniting a spark of inspiration that will propel them to greatness.

So to all those seeking to embark on a journey of self-discovery and make a positive impact on society, I invite you to become a youth mentor. By sharing your knowledge, experiences, and insights with young people, you can inspire them to pursue their passions, unlock their potential, and become their best versions. You can be the guiding light that helps them navigate the twists and turns of life, and make a lasting difference in their lives. So why not take the leap and become a mentor today? The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are immeasurable.