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OFFICIAL LAUNCH ANNOUNCEMENT
R.I.S.E. Mentorship Academy Unveils 2026 Global Journeys & Expands Its Commitment to Young Leaders
Brooklyn, NY — R.I.S.E. (Reaching Individual Student Excellence) Mentorship Academy is proud to announce its official launch and upcoming 2026 international travel experiences, continuing its mission to uplift, educate, and empower the next generation of young men. In collaboration with the T. Barnes Global Foundation, R.I.S.E. is expanding its reach and creating new opportunities for cultural exchange and global leadership development.
Founded by veteran educator and mentor Shawn Mason, R.I.S.E. was born from over 24 years of classroom experience, community mentorship, and deep engagement with New York City youth. What began in December 2018 as a grassroots initiative has now grown into a structured and scalable mentorship platform with proven impact. Through partnerships with school administrators, elected officials, and organizations across the city, R.I.S.E. equips young men with the essential tools they need to succeed—not just academically, but in life.
A Holistic Approach to Youth Empowerment
R.I.S.E. Mentorship Academy offers year-round programming that supports leadership development, character building, and cultural awareness. Core curriculum areas include:
Career and College Pathways: Helping students prepare for the future with practical skills, goal-setting, and exposure to higher education and career options.
Financial Literacy: Empowering mentees to understand budgeting, saving, investing, and generational wealth building.
Entrepreneurship: Cultivating a mindset of innovation and ownership through workshops and mentorship.
Public Speaking: Building confidence and the ability to communicate with clarity and purpose.
Meditation and Self-Reflection: Providing emotional and mental tools to develop mindfulness, resilience, and emotional intelligence.
Restorative Circles & Etiquette: Teaching conflict resolution, respect, discipline, and leadership through culturally-rooted approaches.
Power of Networking: Opening doors and expanding horizons through real-world connections.
The academy works closely with school partners and respected community figures including:
My Brother’s Keeper - August Martin HS
NAACP Brooklyn Chapter
The Brooklyn Bank
Senator Kevin Parker, 21st District
Former Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams
NYC Comptroller’s Office – Scott Stringer
Quick Swipe Services
T. Barnes Global Foundation
GLOBAL MENTORSHIP IN ACTION: 2026 INTERNATIONAL TRIPS
In 2026, R.I.S.E. is taking its mission to a new level with two immersive international experiences that will connect mentees to the global African diaspora:
Senegal – April 2026
An emotionally and culturally rich journey to West Africa where students will explore heritage, identity, and the legacy of resilience. The trip will include historical site visits, community service, youth exchanges, and leadership circles designed to instill a deeper sense of self, pride, and purpose.
Morocco – Late June 2026
A North African adventure designed to challenge perspectives, build independence, and explore the intersections of culture, history, and modernity. From bustling cities to tranquil villages, students will experience a range of workshops and activities that foster leadership, adaptability, and a broadened worldview. The summer program will be held at the Mwasi Global Community, offering participants a unique opportunity to learn, reflect, and grow in an environment dedicated to cultural exchange and empowerment.
Both trips will serve as rites of passage, helping young men see themselves as global citizens while reinforcing their responsibilities as leaders in their own communities.
From the Founder
“I believe that leadership development is critical for young men as they mature in life. It is my belief that all young men have the ability and desire to be successful—they simply need the tools and guidance to support their journey.”
— Shawn Mason, Founder & CEO
Get Involved
Whether you are an educator, parent, donor, or community partner, we invite you to join us in making a lasting impact. Programs are available year-round and can be customized for schools, organizations, and community-based initiatives.
Visit: www.risementorshipacademynyc.com
Email: risementorshipacademy@gmail.com
Follow: @risementorshipacademy on Instagram & Facebook | @RISEMENTORSHIP1 on Twitter
Contact: Shawn Mason – 917.676.7559
R.I.S.E. Mentorship Academy is more than a program. It’s a movement. A call to action. A commitment to lifting as we climb—locally and globally.
Let us rise, together.