Breaking Barriers: How Mentorship Propels Black Americans to Incredible Success

Black Americans continue to be trailblazers by breaking barriers and achieving incredible success in a wide range of fields. Mentorship has played a crucial role in this success, providing guidance, support, and opportunities to help individuals reach their full potential. Here are just a few examples of Black Americans who have accomplished amazing things with the help of their mentors and are currently mentoring others.

  • Kamala Harris
    The Vice President of the United States and the first black and Asian woman to hold the office, Kamala Harris was mentored by the late civil rights attorney and politician, Willie Brown. Harris credits Brown with providing her with the guidance and support she needed to pursue a career in politics and become a trailblazer in her own right. Today, she serves as a mentor to young people, inspiring them to pursue careers in public service and make a difference in their communities.
  • Stacey Abrams
    The voting rights activist and politician was mentored by the civil rights leader, the late Julian Bond. Bond provided Abrams with the guidance and support she needed to pursue a career in politics and become a leading voice in the fight for voting rights and social justice. Today, she is a mentor to young activists, providing them with the tools and resources they need to make a difference in their communities.
  • Ava DuVernay
    The filmmaker and producer was mentored by director Steven Spielberg. Spielberg provided DuVernay with the guidance and support she needed to pursue a career in film, eventually becoming one of the most influential filmmakers of her generation. Today, she is a mentor to young filmmakers, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed in the industry.
  • David E. Talbert
    David E. Talbert, the playwright, filmmaker, and producer, was mentored by playwright August Wilson. Wilson provided Talbert with the guidance and support he needed to pursue a career in theater, eventually becoming one of the most successful playwrights of his time. Today, he is a mentor to young playwrights and filmmakers, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed in the industry.

These are just a few examples of Black Americans who have accomplished amazing things with the help of their mentors and are currently mentoring others. Mentorship provides a critical foundation for growth, offering guidance, support, and opportunities to help individuals reach their full potential. By serving as mentors, these individuals are helping to break down barriers and create a more equitable and just society for future generations.