Rice University’s Black Male Association (RBMA) is stepping up in a big way, mentoring local high school students in a groundbreaking program aimed at fostering leadership, personal growth, and a sense of community. This dynamic initiative kicked off on September 14 with an event that invited Black male high schoolers and their parents to Rice’s campus, marking the beginning of a journey designed to uplift the next generation of leaders. The program, powered by the principles of service, leadership, and brotherhood, brings together Rice students and community youth under a shared goal: to build a brighter future for Black men in Houston.

RBMA, with the support of Rice’s Center for Civic Leadership and the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, has teamed up with M.E.N. Incorporated (Mentoring, Educating, and Nurturing), a local organization dedicated to shaping minority leaders. Together, they are crafting a mentorship program that goes beyond academics—it’s about nurturing emotional intelligence, communication skills, and self-confidence. 

Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers

Nathaniel Boateng, a Hanszen College junior and RBMA member, sees this mentorship as a critical step in dismantling systemic inequalities. “Even though race is a construct that is not real, the effects of racism are real,” Boateng reflects. “Overcoming it through mentorship programs and through education is key to breaking the cycle of generational poverty and setting people on a path toward success in the future.”

The Rice students involved in this program aren’t just mentors—they are role models and advocates for change, driven by a desire to give back to the community. Thomas Witherspoon, a Wiess College junior majoring in health sciences and psychology, shared his motivation: “I do not want to close the door behind me. While I have worked hard to get where I am, I also know that mentors, teachers, and advocates opened doors for me. Now, it’s my turn to help these young men grow their critical thinking and interpersonal skills.”

Creating Lifelong Impact

The mentorship program isn’t just about academic advice or college readiness; it’s about shaping the future leaders of Houston. “These students who may have never envisioned themselves on Rice’s campus will now have the opportunity to explore and see the benefits Rice has to offer,” said Lovett College junior Shungu Zimbwa. “Our mission is clear: to enrich the lives of RBMA mentors and M.E.N. Inc. mentees by boosting their emotional intelligence, societal awareness, and interpersonal communicability.”

Zimbwa emphasized that the program will tackle heavy topics such as political discourse, relationships, cultural significance, and leadership. Each month, mentors and mentees will engage in creative and meaningful discussions that will shape their worldview and equip them to become strong, confident leaders.

A Legacy of Mentorship

For many of these students, the impact of having a mentor goes beyond the program. Brown College junior Spencer Rembert shared his own experience: “In 2018, I met my big brother, D’Andre, through the Sigma Beta Club. He became a significant influence in my life. Our relationship has fueled my determination to give back what I’ve received.”

The RBMA’s initiative is poised to create lasting change, not only for the mentees but for the mentors as well. As Zimbwa explains, “Not only do we hope to see measurable, observable differences in communication by the end of the year in our mentees, but we also hope to see the same growth in ourselves.”

Creating Future Leaders

The RBMA mentorship program is more than a community initiative—it’s a movement. By fostering meaningful relationships and tackling critical topics, Rice’s Black student leaders are building a bridge between the university and the broader Houston community, empowering young Black men to envision themselves as future leaders, scholars, and change-makers.

With monthly events planned, covering everything from academic preparation to voting rights, these mentorship sessions will guide high school students on a path to success. By helping them build confidence, societal awareness, and critical thinking skills, RBMA is giving Houston’s next generation the tools they need to overcome challenges and thrive.

Join the Movement

Want to learn more about RBMA or get involved in the mentorship program? You can reach out to therbma@gmail.com for more information. This program is more than just mentorship—it’s a commitment to creating a legacy of leadership and community impact that will resonate for years to come. 

Through this partnership, Rice University and the RBMA are making a powerful statement: the future belongs to those who uplift others, and Houston’s Black male youth are poised to lead the way.

For more info, visit Rice.edu