Youth Mentorship

The Problem: Immigrant college students in the U.S. often face unique and compounding challenges—cultural adjustment, identity struggles, language barriers, and limited access to supportive networks and resources. These obstacles can lead to gaps in academic achievement, financial resources, career opportunities, mental wellness, and a sense of belonging. Without intentional support, many talented and resilient immigrant youth risk being left behind in systems not designed with their lived experiences in mind.

Program Overview: The Annot Youth Mentorship Program is a six-month, culturally responsive mentorship initiative designed to support newly arrived (African) immigrant college students in the District of Columbia (DC), Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area during their first or second year in U.S. higher education. The program addresses academic, cultural, professional, financial, and psychosocial adjustment challenges through structured mentorship, targeted workshops, and community- building experiences. 

The Annot Youth Mentorship Program Manual provides mentors, mentees, and administrators with clear guidance, structured tools, and culturally responsive resources. By combining relationship-based mentorship with practical skill-building and accountability, the program creates a scalable and impactful model for supporting (African) immigrant students as they transition, thrive, and lead in the U.S.

Program Goals

• Support successful academic and social transition into U.S. colleges

• Build confidence, leadership, and a strong sense of identity and belonging

• Increase access to networks, resources, and career opportunities

• Equip students with practical life, financial, and immigration knowledge

• Cultivate future leaders who give back to their communities

Key Components

• Program length: 6 months

• Format: Hybrid (virtual + in-person)

• Workshops

• Mentor-Mentee Meetings

• Monthly Small-Group Mentorship Meetings

• Educational Webinars

• Community & Wellness Activities

• Annual Youth Conference 

• Program Evaluation & Close-Out

Visit: https://www.annotinc.org/mentorship to learn more about the free Annot Youth Mentorship program.