On Thursday, March 9th 2017 Project MALES participated in the SXSWedu Community Dialogue Program. This year, we were joined by students, counselors, and principals from Webb Middle School, Martin Middle School, Mendez Middle School, Travis Early College High School (ECHS), Lanier High School, Reagan ECHS, and Lyndon B. Johnson ECHS. Project MALES along with our local partners participated in a session titled “My Brother’s Keeper: Connecting Community, Creating Change,” organized by the Greater Austin Area’s My Brother’s Keeper.
The Greater Austin Area My Brother’s Keeper Initiative was created in collaboration with City, County, University and other organizations within the Greater Austin community working to enhance the health, well-being and prosperity for boys and men of color. Further, the GAAMBK is committed to supporting males of color in reaching their full potential through solutions which eliminate disparities and create equity.
This year, Project MALES mentors and mentees were part of a panel discussion on “The Mentor/Mentee Impact” were they had an opportunity to share about how the mentor/mentee relationship influenced their desire to continue their own educational journeys and their involvement in their own communities. We want to congratulate our Project MALES mentor Angel Ortiz and his mentee for being recognized by GAAMBK with the mentor/mentee award. We also want to thank Dr. Ryan Sutton for facilitating the conversation amongst our participants.