Milwaukee nurse launches mentorship program to help youth discover their purpose

MILWAUKEE — In 2019, Jasmine Johnikin made a dedication to avoid wasting lives when she graduated from nursing college. The 28-year-old works full-time as a nurse at Froedert Hospital however mentioned she felt like she wanted to do extra.

“I felt like I used to be fulfilling my objective of changing into a nurse however one thing else felt prefer it was lacking,” mentioned Johnikin.

It was throughout the pandemic that Johnikin realized she had a ardour for mentoring the youth. After sharing her imaginative and prescient with household and pals, she launched As I Am Mentoring Inc. in June 2022. It is a mentorship program designed to assist children understand their objective in life and provides them a voice

“They’re coping with issues and they’re battling so many alternative points,” mentioned Johnikin. “Our aim is simply to assist strengthen them and assist push them in the best route.”

“​It is wonderful to see them develop in every session. It makes me blissful​,” mentioned Sarah Smith, one other mentor with this system.

The co-ed program is at present provided to any and all excessive schoolers freed from cost. Every little thing wanted to run As I Am is paid for by Johnikin herself.

“It is my ardour, it is my objective, and I will do no matter I’ve to do to verify it thrives.”

14-year-old Jazziah Watson was one of many first teenagers to enroll in this system. She, together with 11 different teenagers, meets as soon as a month with mentors on Saturdays at Cardinal Stritch College to debate challenges they face on a day-to-day foundation.

“It is sort of like a stereotype put in opposition to teenagers particularly African-American teenagers so I undoubtedly really feel like I can come right here and I can specific how I really feel and I can considerably beat the stereotype,” mentioned Watson. “We’re an clever group of individuals.”

And by offering this system, Johnikin hopes that she’ll be capable of save much more lives outdoors the emergency room.

“I am grateful for the chance to be that vessel, for use and work together and to make a change in our youth’s lives.”

If you happen to’re taken with enrolling your teen in this system ship an e mail to Johnikin at AIAmentoring@gmail.com.

Be taught extra about As I Am Mentoring Inc.
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To donate you’ll be able to money app this system: $aiamentoringinc

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