From Mentees to Mentors: The Power of Peer-Led Coaching in AYDEPI
At the African Young Dreamers Empowerment Program International (AYDEPI), we believe that true leadership begins within the community. Our Bridge to Harmony men’s-only mentorship program is a living testament to that belief—a space where transformation unfolds, and young men evolve from mentees into confident, compassionate mentors, ready to lead their peers and uplift their communities.
Designed to serve young men in South King County, Washington, Bridge to Harmony addresses a pressing need for positive male mentorship. The program supports youth facing challenges such as trauma, anger management, and societal pressures, equipping them with vital tools in emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and leadership. Today, we proudly celebrate the remarkable journey of participants who began as mentees and have now stepped into leadership roles—proving that peer-led coaching isn’t just effective; it’s transformative.
Leadership That Inspires: Anthony Curtis and Emerging Youth Mentors
At the heart of Bridge to Harmony is Anthony Curtis, Executive Director and Founder of the Black Equality Coalition. With years of experience in youth development and community building, Anthony has created a space where young men feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow. Under his guidance, leadership is not just taught—it’s modeled and nurtured.
Joining Anthony are passionate youth leaders who have become the pillars of the program: Sincyre Bell, Medichael Mereste, Manasse Dias, and Denzel Kimani. These young men bring authenticity and relatability to their roles, sharing their personal struggles and triumphs while mentoring others. Their leadership is not only instructional but deeply human—demonstrating resilience, empathy, and the power of shared experience.
From Mentees to Mentors: The Power of Transformation
One of the most profound outcomes of the Bridge to Harmony program is the organic shift from mentee to mentor. This transition represents more than personal growth—it’s a ripple effect of empowerment. As young men gain confidence and perspective, they begin to uplift others, creating a cycle of support that strengthens the entire community.
Youth leaders like Sincyre Bell and Medichael Mereste have embodied this transformation. Having walked the path themselves, they now guide peer-led workshops focused on self-regulation, leadership, and conflict resolution. Their journeys are proof that with the right support, young men can rise above their circumstances and become agents of change.
Core Pillars of the Program: Emotional Intelligence, Conflict Resolution & Leadership
Leadership Development
Leadership is more than a title—it’s a responsibility. In Bridge to Harmony, young men learn that true leadership comes from action, empathy, and integrity. Through hands-on experiences—facilitating group discussions, leading community initiatives, or mentoring younger participants—they gain confidence and purpose. The program empowers them to lead with vision and values, both within the group and in their broader communities.
Conflict Resolution
Navigating conflict is a critical life skill. Bridge to Harmony provides practical tools and frameworks for resolving disagreements constructively. Through role-playing, peer coaching, and reflective conversations, participants learn how to de-escalate tensions, communicate clearly, and find peaceful solutions. By sharing real-life stories, youth leaders help normalize these challenges and model healthy ways to respond.
Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence—understanding and managing one’s own emotions while being attuned to others—is foundational to success in all areas of life. In the program, young men explore emotional awareness, self-regulation strategies, and healthy expression. Through guided exercises and discussions, they learn how to transform anger and frustration into clarity, strength, and meaningful connection.
The Ripple Effect: Community Change Through Peer-Led Coaching
What makes Bridge to Harmony unique is its peer-led approach. Participants are not just learning—they are actively shaping one another’s growth. This fosters accountability, mutual respect, and a strong sense of ownership. As mentors emerge from within the group, they bring authenticity and relatability that resonate deeply with their peers.
This peer-led model creates a lasting ripple effect. As young leaders model positive behaviors and share what they’ve learned, they inspire others to grow, lead, and contribute—amplifying the impact of the program far beyond its sessions.
A Legacy of Empowerment
Bridge to Harmony is more than a mentorship program—it’s a movement. It’s about creating a legacy of empowered young men who uplift each other and their communities. Thanks to the visionary leadership of Anthony Curtis and the dedication of youth leaders like Sincyre, Medichael, Manasse, and Denzel, the program has become a beacon of hope, growth, and transformation.
At AYDEPI, we remain committed to nurturing this powerful journey—from mentee to mentor, from learner to leader. Bridge to Harmony proves that when young men are given the tools, support, and space to lead, they rise to the occasion—and in doing so, they change the world around them.
Together, we are building a future of empowered leaders—one young man at a time.