Written by: JR Robinson

MEMPHIS, TN – One Memphis Boys Mentoring, in collaboration with One Memphis CDC, recently hosted a transformative evening for its young mentees, featuring guest speaker Demond Moore, Director of Human Resources Corporate Staff for International Paper. The event, held at Living Life in Victory Church, served as a beacon of inspiration and guidance for the young men, providing them with invaluable insights into personal and professional development. This event exemplifies the core mission of One Memphis CDC, which is to collaborate with city officials, community leaders, and citizens to foster positive change and empowerment within Memphis.

The collaboration between One Memphis Boys Mentoring and One Memphis CDC underscores the power of community partnerships in addressing the challenges faced by young men in the city. One Memphis CDC, a non-profit organization established in September 2021, was founded with the express purpose of uniting the community in prayer and action, working closely with city and county mayors, the Chief of Police, local government officials, and the citizens of Memphis. Their mission to create a safer, more equitable, and thriving Memphis aligns seamlessly with One Memphis Boys Mentoring’s dedication to nurturing the potential of young men through guidance, mentorship, and empowerment.

The evening commenced with a warm welcome and introductions, setting a positive and encouraging atmosphere. Following the initial greetings, Demond Moore took to the stage, captivating the audience with his powerful and deeply personal address.

Demond Moore: A Message of Heritage, Perseverance, and Purpose

Moore's speech was not merely a presentation; it was a heartfelt dialogue that resonated deeply with the young men, offering a blend of historical context, personal anecdotes, and actionable advice. He skillfully wove together themes of honoring the past, embracing the present, and striving for a brighter future, leaving an indelible mark on all in attendance.

• Acknowledging the Sacrifices of Previous Generations: Moore began by paying homage to the generations that came before, emphasizing the importance of understanding and appreciating the struggles and sacrifices made by Black Americans in the face of systemic oppression. He shared poignant stories of his own family history, illustrating the challenges his ancestors faced in a society marked by racial injustice.

  He spoke of his grandmother, a resilient woman who raised thirteen children while working tirelessly in a factory. Despite lacking formal education, she worked diligently, taking the bus every night to her shift to provide for her family. Moore also recounted the story of his grandfather, a skilled plumber who was unjustly denied membership in the plumbers' union due to the color of his skin. As a result, he was unable to secure essential benefits for his family, highlighting the pervasive impact of racial discrimination on economic opportunities.

  Moore implored the young men not to take their current opportunities for granted, urging them to recognize that their access to education, resources, and possibilities is a direct result of the unwavering determination and resilience of those who paved the way. "I don't want y'all to take it for granted," Moore emphasized, urging them to honor the legacy of their parents and grandparents by making the most of the opportunities they have been afforded.

• Seizing Control Through Education and Self-Improvement: Moore shared intimate details of his own life, revealing his personal struggles and triumphs. He recounted growing up in a divorced household, navigating the challenges of adolescence without a consistent father figure. Rather than succumbing to the weight of his circumstances, Moore made a conscious decision to focus on what he could control: his education.

  He emphasized the transformative power of learning, encouraging the young men to embrace reading, critical thinking, and intellectual curiosity as tools for overcoming obstacles and achieving their aspirations. "I said what can I control? I can go to school," Moore explained, emphasizing the importance of education as a means of empowerment and upward mobility. He stressed that education is not merely about acquiring knowledge but about developing the capacity to analyze, reason, and create, enabling them to shape their own destinies.

  Moore also spoke about the importance of identifying and addressing personal weaknesses, encouraging the young men to actively seek opportunities for self-improvement and growth. He challenged them to step outside their comfort zones, embrace challenges, and cultivate a mindset of continuous learning and development.

• Challenging Negative Stereotypes and Embracing Authenticity: Moore confronted the pervasive issue of negative stereotypes, acknowledging the harmful representations of Black men that often dominate media portrayals. He challenged the young men to reject these limiting narratives and to actively defy them by investing in themselves, pursuing education, and developing their skills. He emphasized the importance of projecting a positive image and showcasing their true potential to the world.

  Moore passionately asserted, "I'm proud to be a black man, and I'm not who you think I am based on what you saw on TV or what you might have saw on TikTok." He urged the young men to recognize their own inherent worth and to refuse to allow societal biases to define their identities or limit their aspirations.

  He emphasized the importance of authenticity, encouraging the young men to embrace their unique qualities and to express themselves authentically, without conforming to external pressures or expectations. He challenged them to be true to themselves, to stand tall in their own identities, and to let their actions speak louder than any stereotypes.

• Celebrating Black Identity and Community: Moore spoke with deep pride about the privilege and beauty of being Black, emphasizing the richness of Black culture, history, and heritage. He encouraged the young men to embrace their identity with pride and to support one another in their individual journeys. He lauded One Memphis Boys Mentoring for creating a nurturing and supportive environment where young men can learn, grow, and develop into confident and successful individuals.

  "It's a privilege being black, it's beautiful being black. I wouldn't want to be anything else but a black man, even in the United States," Moore affirmed, instilling in the young men a sense of pride and belonging. He challenged them to recognize the strength and resilience of their community and to actively contribute to its growth and progress.

  Moore emphasized the importance of community engagement, encouraging the young men to participate in activities and initiatives that uplift and empower their peers. He challenged them to be role models, mentors, and advocates for positive change within their communities.

• Cultivating Effective Communication Skills: Moore underscored the critical importance of developing strong communication skills, including public speaking, maintaining eye contact, and projecting confidence. He emphasized that these skills are essential for articulating their value, connecting with others, and advocating for themselves in various settings.

  He connected this skill to their participation in the mentoring program, urging them to take advantage of opportunities to speak and share their voices. Moore emphasized that effective communication is not merely about speaking eloquently but about conveying ideas with clarity, conviction, and empathy.

  He encouraged the young men to practice active listening, seeking to understand diverse perspectives and engaging in respectful dialogue. He challenged them to develop their ability to articulate their thoughts and ideas persuasively, advocating for their beliefs with confidence and conviction.

Empowering Voices: Mentees Practice Public Speaking

Prior to Moore's address, several mentees were given the opportunity to practice public speaking by introducing themselves and sharing their aspirations for the future. This exercise was designed to build their confidence and charisma, encouraging them to embrace opportunities to speak up and share their voices.

The young men spoke passionately about their dreams and goals, showcasing their diverse talents and interests. Some expressed a desire to pursue careers in STEM fields, while others spoke of their aspirations to become entrepreneurs, artists, and community leaders. Their enthusiasm and determination were palpable, demonstrating the transformative impact of the mentoring program on their lives.

A Shared Vision for a Brighter Future

The evening concluded with a dinner portion, providing an opportunity for the young men to connect with Moore and with one another in a more informal setting. The atmosphere was filled with hope and optimism, as the mentees reflected on the lessons they had learned and the inspiration they had gained.

One Memphis Boys Mentoring, in partnership with One Memphis CDC, remains steadfast in its commitment to providing invaluable support and guidance to young men in the community, empowering them to overcome obstacles, pursue their dreams, and become positive role models. The event featuring Demond Moore served as a powerful reminder of the potential that resides within each of these young men and the importance of investing in their futures.

This event underscores the importance of the work that One Memphis CDC is doing. With a focus on collaboration, prayer, and community engagement, One Memphis CDC is working to create a more equitable and thriving Memphis for all. Their partnership with One Memphis Boys Mentoring exemplifies their commitment to empowering young people and fostering positive change within the city. By working together, these organizations are helping to create a brighter future for the young men of Memphis, ensuring that they have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

The success of this event serves as a testament to the power of mentorship, community support, and visionary leadership. One Memphis Boys Mentoring, in collaboration with One Memphis CDC and with the guidance of leaders like Demond Moore, is making a profound difference in the lives of young men in Memphis, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed in all aspects of their lives. As these young men continue on their journeys, they will undoubtedly carry with them the lessons learned and the inspiration gained from this transformative evening, becoming leaders and change-makers in their own right, shaping a brighter future for their communities and for the world.