Mayor’s Mentor Up Winter Gala Offers Mentorship Opportunity to Local Professionals

Mayor Malik D. Evans today announced that applications are now open for local professionals interested in mentoring youth to participate in the annual Mayor’s Mentor Up Winter Gala. Prospective mentors can apply through Friday, Nov. 14 at CityofRochester.gov/MentorUp.

The gala will take place on Saturday, Dec. 20, as part of Mayor's Mentor Up program, a dynamic initiative aimed at fostering enduring mentorship relationships between community role models and city youth ages 14 18. It comes as the fifth event in a series that has also included Mayor’s Mentor Up Summer Soirées.

“Every mentorship connection opens doors to real opportunities for our youth—inspiration, internships, and even future careers,” said Mayor Evans. “I encourage all local professionals to apply. Investing an evening of your time to connect with our young people can yield immeasurable value for both mentors and mentees as they learn from each other’s perspectives, accomplishments and aspirations.”  

“I’ve participated as a mentor in multiple Mayor’s Mentor Up events and highly recommend the experience,” Keila Diaz, CakeLani owner and Mentor Up mentor. “As an entrepreneur, I recognize the value in youth building up the courage to approach people in the business world. Plus, I love discovering what we have in common from pursuing our passions to growing a social media presence.”

The Mentor Up Winter Gala will bring together mentors and mentees, as well as community partners at Arbor Loft. The formal yet fun environment is an opportunity for young minds to practice networking with peers and leaders, forming connections that could lead to natural mentor-mentee partnerships and potential career opportunities. Past Mentor Up events have brought together more than 100 mentors and mentees.

To learn more and apply as a mentor or youth mentee, visit www.CityofRochester.gov/MentorUP.