Stars Mentorship Program, founded by Minden native Quinterya Jackson, is celebrating its one-year anniversary this month. The program, launched October 23, 2024, was created to provide local youth with a safe, encouraging space to learn, grow, and prepare for the future.
Jackson, who serves as founder, and Co-Founder Charite Weston, both longtime friends and former participants in youth organizations themselves, developed the idea after recognizing a need for guidance, encouragement, and positive role models among today’s youth.
“The idea came from seeing the significant need for guidance, encouragement, and positive role models among today’s youth,” Jackson said. “I wanted to establish a secure environment where they could engage in discussions, gain knowledge, and mature, while also providing the supportive network I had benefited from.”
Since its launch, Rising Stars has offered a variety of lessons and activities focused on personal development, including hygiene and self-care, mental health awareness, confidence building, peer pressure education, and time and money management. Other topics have included sisterhood, goal setting, career exploration, public speaking, and community service.
Jackson said she and Weston started with a simple vision. “Charite and I have been friends since elementary school and were part of some of the same youth organizations that helped shape who we are today,” she said. “Sharing the same heart for mentorship and passion for helping others made it easy for us to come together and turn our vision into something real.”
Each Rising Stars meeting begins with prayer and a short reading from 365 Devos for Teen Girls. Sessions combine learning with fun, often featuring hands-on activities or open discussions. Meetings conclude with snacks and reflection time.
“My biggest hope was that the girls would truly understand the purpose behind the program — that it’s more than just fun or activities,” Jackson said. “I wanted them to know why mentorship matters and why it’s important to have someone you can lean on.”
In its first year, Jackson said she has already seen positive results. “Noticing their enthusiasm for the next meeting, observing improvements in behavior, and recognizing a positive shift in attitudes” have all been highlights, she said.
The program continues to welcome community involvement. Jackson said they are currently seeking guest speakers, sponsors, and donations to help fund activities, snacks, supplies, and potential field trips. Rising Stars also looks for local community service opportunities for its participants.
Looking ahead, Jackson hopes to see the program expand. “In five years, I see us having our own building where we can host workshops, college prep sessions, and life skill classes all under one roof,” she said. “Most of all, I want every child who comes through Rising Stars to leave knowing their worth, their value, and their purpose.”
For more information about Rising Stars Mentorship Program, visit @rsmentorship on Instagram, Rising Stars Mentorship Program on Facebook, or email [email protected].
