Mentorship That Matters: Jendayi Oliver’s Story
The true measure of a program’s success lies in the lives it changes, and for Jendayi Gyamerah-Oliver, the impact of 100 Black Men Indianapolis has been nothing short of transformative. From her early days in the Summer Academy to representing the organization at a national financial literacy competition, Jendayi’s journey is a testament to the power of mentorship, education, and community.
Jendayi first joined the 100 Black Men Indianapolis’ Summer Academy in first grade, and for many summers after, the program became an essential part of her life. From the moment she stepped into the program, she experienced an environment that nurtured her academically and personally, guided by mentors who looked like her and understood her experiences.
“The Summer Academy wasn’t just about keeping busy during the summer—it was where I gained skills, confidence, and community,” Jendayi says. “And it it wasn’t just about going to the pool and taking field trips. During summer academy we worked on math, reading and history, in addition to hanging out with friends. Those skills will last me a lifetime.”
The lessons learned didn’t just help Jendayi in the short term—they laid the foundation for a life of purpose and potential. And while Summer Academy offers educational opportunities for students, it also ensures peace of mind for parents looking for affordable summer activities for their children.
“When my daughters didn’t attend one summer, I noticed a significant knowledge gap when they returned to school,” shared her mother, Gyamfua Gyamerah. “During the summers where my children attended programs, they tested at or above grade level the next year. I attribute this to the education wrapped in fun that helped curb the learning gap many African American children face.”
The impact wasn’t just academic. Jendayi and her peers were guided by Black teachers and administrators, which added a deeper connection as Black youth could see themselves represented in diverse career pathways. In fact, the National Institute of Health reported that early to middle adolescence is a critical phase for forming ethnic-racial identity, underscoring the gap that 100 Black Men Indianapolis programs address by leveraging diverse professionals and community leaders to guide Black youth.
“Every day started with an affirmational song—I could probably still sing it today. The energy and the sense of community were inspiring,” Jendayi recalls. “When we got in trouble, it wasn’t just punishment—it was a conversation because they wanted to see us grow. The teaching felt personal coming from Black leaders who wanted to see us succeed in our lives.”
This experience of mentorship continued to shape Jendayi, even after she took a brief hiatus from the program during the pandemic. When she joined the financial literacy program, Jendayi was once again inspired by the mentors who shared their knowledge, not just about money, but about life. Learning budgeting, investments, and stocks, she created her own investment portfolio alongside peers, gaining skills that would serve her for a lifetime.
Jendayi’s participation in the national financial literacy competition in Las Vegas in 2023 was a highlight of her journey. Fully funded by 100 Black Men, the trip allowed her to compete on a national stage, make lifelong connections, and represent her community. For many students, including Jendayi, it was their first major trip outside of Indiana, an experience that broadened their horizons. A moment that her mother will never forget.
“100 Black Men Indianapolis provided both of my daughters opportunities that weren’t available elsewhere, teaching them how to navigate life as confident young Black women,” reflected Gyamfua Gyamerah. “These experiences provided them with resources, relationships, and an empowering network that made a real difference. To see Black mentors pour into my daughters, and other students like them, it was truly invaluable.”
As a senior in high school, Jendayi is preparing for her next steps, with aspirations of attending Howard University. Her connection to 100 Black Men remains strong, as she plans to join Collegiate 100 and continue to be mentored by the same leaders who have helped her grow over the years—even down to Executive Director Kraig Kinchen who helped write her letter of recommendation.
Jendayi’s journey is just one example of how 100 Black Men Indianapolis creates a lasting impact. Through its programs, mentorship, and community, the organization empowers young people to achieve beyond their circumstances, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed. And for families like Jendayi’s, the ripple effect of that investment is undeniable.