Today we’d like to introduce you to Mona Arestil.
Hi Mona, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
First, I’d like to thank you for the opportunity to speak on this platform and to the audience of this medium about Beaming Brite Mentoring, Inc. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that works within the Dekalb and Gwinnett County areas at the moment. Our mission is to enrich, enhance, and expand the thinking of youth through activities that promote self-love, self-acceptance, and education. The organization had a soft launch in the second half of 2021. Our first event allowed us to partner with another organization where we provided donations during the Christmas holidays to youths in the Atlanta Metro Area. We are looking forward to expanding our mentorship programs in the coming months and we are excited about what the future holds for the organization.
The seed to start a mentorship program was in me before I knew I had the capacity to do it. I have had various mentors in my life. These mentors range all the way back to when I first came to the United States from the Bahamas as a young child. Being young, I didn’t realize how valuable having a mentor was until I matriculated through high school. I had one mentor in particular who genuinely cared about me and my well-being. She showed up for me in ways I didn’t expect her to. She checked in with me, opened my eyes to different cultural experiences, and even asked about my family. From then I knew I wanted to be in a career where I can show compassion and care towards others. I have a special place in my heart for young people because someone was there for me during that formative time of my life.
My passion for working with youth came during my undergraduate years at the University of Florida. In 2003, I was sent as a delegate for my sorority, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., to the Leadership Institute for a weekend retreat. As a college student, I was there to have fun and meet new people, but I had no idea that I would gain insight into what it takes to be a true leader. By the end of that weekend, we had to develop our visions and write out a plan. I wanted to create an enrichment program that nourishes the whole child and not just tackle behavior issues. Since then, I have been in the field of Education with almost 20 years of experience. I have experience running educational programs and mentoring youth from all walks of life. All of those experiences and encounters have provided me with a vast range of individuals who have shaped my vision and paved the way for the birth of Beaming Brite Mentoring, Inc. I carry with me the experience and know-how of what it takes to be a mentor and make an impact on the youth that we serve and develop. With my first-hand experience, I know the value of the right type of mentorship. Today, I am proud that the vision has come to fruition. I present to you Beaming Brite Mentoring, Inc.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
When I say timing is everything, it’s everything! The idea of starting a non-profit has always been in the back of my mind, but I had no idea how to get started. So, I never started. The idea of not having the right people or funds delayed me from getting started. Then one day in conversation, the name of the organization was birthed. Things started to move after that day. The right people came into my life and momentum became a constant. It was a delayed start, but it was definitely not denied. I kept the belief that things would work and just like that, they did!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Currently, I am an Educator working within the K – 12 sectors of the school system. I find joy in seeing my scholars develop into who they are meant to be in this world. I am known for meeting people, especially my students, where they are and providing a little light to guide them along the way. I am proud of being someone who never gives up on herself. I am proud of being the Founder and CEO of Beaming Brite Mentoring, Inc. I decided how I wanted to show up in this world and did exactly that. I show up as me every day and I want to be known for my bubble that is full of light. I understand I am a co-creator of my experiences, therefore I set my intentions accordingly. Most of all, I know who I am. Knowing that is key in expanding and growing into the best version of myself.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Yes, I’d like to share that I am also part of the performing arts community. Specifically, I am an improv comedy artist, and I enjoy modeling in various categories.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.beamingbrite.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beamingbritementoring/?utm_medium=copy_link
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beamingbrite/
Image Credits
Jose Pagan Photography Whole World Improv Théâtre O Shot Me photography Picked Photos
