Exploring Big Futures: Teen Littles Jakaila and Darius Reflect on Growth, Belonging, and Mentorship
April 11, 2025
At the 2025 Big Night Gala, teen Littles Jakaila and Darius took the stage to share how mentorship has shaped their lives and fueled brighter futures. From bike rides and blizzards to college plans and creative passions, their stories highlight the lasting impact of consistent, caring mentors and support from their families, our staff and partners along the way. Jakaila and Darius reminded us that when youth have someone who shows up, listens, and believes in them, anything is possible. Their experiences are a powerful testament to of youth mentorship in helping youth explore their purpose, power and potential.
Jakaila: Good evening, everyone! My name is Jakaila Baker. First, I want to thank Big Brothers Big Sisters for the opportunity to be here tonight—and for everything they’ve done to support me and so many other youth over the years.
A BIG thank-you to my Big Sister, Melanie, for being such an awesome match, and to my mom, Lakisha, for supporting me and our match from the very beginning. Hi you two, I see you, and our special guest, my grandma!
Melanie and I have been matched for over seven years—and it has been an amazing experience growing up with her. She’s so much more than a mentor to me—she’s family.
Darius, how long have you and your Big been matched?
Darius: Hey everyone—my name is Darius Regulus, and I’ve been matched with my Big, Kyle Beeson, for 11 years now! When we first met, I was just 7 years old, and honestly… I thought Kyle was a little boring. But it turns out I just didn’t know what an awesome mentor looked like yet. Over time, he became someone who really listened, supported me, and helped me grow—not just in what I do, but in who I am.
Jakaila, How would you describe your Big in one word?
Jakaila: That’s easy—extraordinary. Melanie has introduced me to so many passions—like gardening, baking, art, and culture. With her, there’s never a dull moment. She even welcomed me into her family, and I’ll always be grateful for that. Big Brothers Big Sisters has created so many opportunities for us—through events, hangouts, and experiences that help us discover who we are and what we care about.
Darius, I know you’ve had some big decisions to make lately—how has your match supported you?
Darius: Actually, that reminds me of a story. When I was eight or nine, Kyle and I went for one of my first bike rides. It was supposed to be a 2 mile ride to Dairy Queen, but knowing Kyle’s terrible navigation skills, I’m certain it was FAR further. Kyle didn’t also know I was new to travel biking, so it was challenging for the both of us. He was so patient. Encouraged me every step, or painful pedal of the way. He was and has always been such an incredible vocal supporter for me. And, we made it. And I got that sweet, sweet Oreo blizzard.
That’s exactly how Kyle has been through all of my big decisions, including this past year as I prepared to graduate and figure out my next steps. He’s helped me explore my interests in design, in building, in storytelling—and now I’m preparing to study architecture and step into the workforce.
I’ve also had support from my mom and from Sorena, one of the BBBS staff members. They’ve helped me realize that the decisions I make now can shape my future, and that I’m not alone in figuring it all out.
What’s something you’ve learned from your Big that you’ll carry with you, Jakaila?
Jakaila: Melanie has shown me that family isn’t just about who you’re related to—it’s about the people who show up, stay in your life, and help you grow. She’s been there for holidays, family dinners, and just everyday life. With her encouragement—and Big Brothers Big Sisters’ support—I feel ready to take on what’s next, whether that’s college or wherever my journey leads me.
Darius, why do you think mentorship is important for youth like us?
Darius: Because mentorship impacts all of us as young people and beyond. I grew up with separated parents, and Kyle became a consistent, trusted adult in my life when I really needed one. Having someone who sees you, listens to you, and believes in you—that makes all the difference.
Jakaila: Seriously, this is why I believe mentorship is important and deserves to be recognized. It truly takes special people to commit such time and effort to enrich the lives of others.
Darius: To all of you in this room tonight—every hour you volunteer, every dollar you donate—it really does matter.
Jakaila: And, thank you for investing in our big futures!
This is Jakaila and Darius’ speech from the 2025 Big Night Gala, our annual fundraiser and celebration of the power of mentorship.
Want to be part of a young person feels seen, supported, and inspired? Become a youth mentor and help support their big, bright futures.
