Changing Lives Through Youth Mentorship: Friends of Africa’s Impact in Edgewood

In a world where teens face increasing pressures—from academic challenges to social and emotional hurdles—the need for strong mentorship programs has never been greater. That’s where Friends of Africa International, a respected nonprofit for teens based in Edgewood, Maryland, steps in.

Through culturally aware, community-driven programs, Friends of Africa is empowering youth with the tools they need to succeed—not only academically, but as compassionate, globally minded leaders.

🌐 Learn more about the organization’s mission here:
👉 https://www.friendsofafrica.us.com/about.php

Why Youth Mentorship in Maryland Matters

Youth mentorship has been proven to reduce dropout rates, improve emotional health, and increase career readiness. In Maryland, where diverse communities thrive, mentorship is also a gateway to cultural understanding and inclusion.

That’s why Friends of Africa focuses not just on grades—but on character, confidence, and community.

“We believe every young person deserves a champion—someone who sees their potential and helps them realize it.”
– Dr. Kofi A. Badu, Founder, Friends of Africa

How Friends of Africa Supports Youth in Edgewood

Friends of Africa’s youth-focused programs serve local teens in Harford County through a mix of mentorship, education, and volunteer service. These programs create safe, structured environments where teens can build real-world skills and meaningful relationships.

💬 1. One-on-One Mentoring

Local volunteers—including teachers, college students, and professionals—are matched with teens to provide regular guidance, emotional support, and life coaching.

Topics Covered:

• Academic support

• Goal setting & time management

• Emotional resilience

• Cultural identity and pride

🌍 2. Global Citizenship Workshops

These interactive sessions teach Maryland teens about African cultures, international development, and global citizenship—expanding their worldview and building empathy.

“When kids in Edgewood see how they can help kids in Ghana or Nigeria, they understand their power.”

🎯 3. Career & College Prep

Friends of Africa offers workshops to help teens with:

• College applications

• Resume building

• Public speaking

• Interview skills

🔗 Tip: Explore resources from Youth.gov on national youth development models.

Real Stories: Mentorship Making a Difference

Take Malik, a 15-year-old from Edgewood High School, who joined the program last year. Paired with a college mentor studying engineering, Malik gained the confidence to start a robotics club at school. This fall, he’s applying to STEM academies in Baltimore with a clear sense of direction.

Or meet Jade, whose mentor helped her navigate anxiety and find a love for spoken-word poetry—she’s now leading open mic nights at local youth centers.

These aren’t exceptions. They’re just a few of the hundreds of teens being impacted every year by the Friends of Africa youth team.

A Nonprofit for Teens, Rooted in Community

Unlike large, impersonal programs, Friends of Africa remains locally grounded in Edgewood, working closely with:

• Local schools

• Churches and community centers

• Parents and guardians

• Youth service organizations

Their work is supported by community members who donate time, talent, and resources to help build the next generation of leaders.

🧡 Want to join the mission? Learn how to get involved:
👉 https://www.friendsofafrica.us.com/get-involved

How You Can Help

If you’re a parent, educator, or professional in Maryland looking to make a difference, here’s how you can support Friends of Africa’s youth work:

✅ Volunteer as a Mentor

Support a teen’s personal and academic journey.
🔗 Become a mentor

✅ Donate to Youth Programs

Help fund scholarship, field trips, and workshops.
🔗 Donate here

✅ Spread the Word

Follow, like, and share their youth success stories on social media.
🔗 Facebook: @friendsofafricaint

Conclusion: Mentorship That Transforms Lives

Youth mentorship in Maryland is about more than improving test scores—it’s about building character, purpose, and community. At Friends of Africa, every teen is seen, supported, and empowered.

As a nonprofit for teens in Edgewood, Friends of Africa continues to prove that one caring adult can change a young person’s life—and that ripple of support can create global waves of good.