In the bustling urban landscape of Minneapolis, one individual shines as a beacon of inspiration: Princess Awa-Ada Kisob. As the Vice President of Programs at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Twin Cities, Princess is on a mission to unlock the potential of mentorship, paving the way for young minds to flourish in life’s journey.
During a heartfelt conversation on The Conversation With Al McFarlane, Princess opened about her own path and the profound influence of mentorship. “Mentorship has the power to change lives,” she affirmed, emphasizing the significance of forming connections that foster growth and resilience.
Growing up amidst the diverse communities of Minneapolis, Princess’s horizons expanded when she journeyed to Cameroon, her ancestral homeland. “Witnessing individuals like myself excel in diverse roles was truly enlightening,” she reminisced, igniting a sense of pride and possibility within her.
Her own experiences as a mentee fuelled Princess’s commitment to empowering others. “I owe much of my success to mentorship,” she revealed. “It propelled me to pursue higher education and ignited a passion for giving back to my community.”
With a bachelor’s degree in international studies and accolades such as the Duluth News Tribune’s 20 Under 40 and the YWCA’s Women of Distinction Program, Princess exemplifies the transformative impact of mentorship.
At Big Brothers Big Sisters, Princess and her team strive to create connections that foster personal growth, academic success, and social-emotional well-being. “Our programs extend beyond mere matches,” Princess explained. “We aim to cultivate lasting bonds that empower individuals to thrive.”
The tangible impact of their work is evident. “I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative effects of mentorship,” Princess shared. “From bolstering self-confidence to opening doors to new opportunities, mentorship yields profound and enduring results.
For Princess, the essence of mentorship lies in its reciprocity. “Being a mentor is a journey of mutual growth,” she emphasized. “It’s about learning and evolving together.”
Furthermore, Princess highlights the crucial role of mentors in providing support and understanding to mentees. “A mentor serves as a guiding light, offering a safe space for expression and growth,” she explained. “In a world full of conflicting voices, a mentor stands as a steadfast advocate, meeting mentees where they are with empathy and respect.”
Princess’s insights underscore the multifaceted benefits of mentorship, from expanding perspectives to nurturing individual potential. Her story resonates with those who believe in the power of mentorship to inspire and uplift.
As Princess continues to champion the cause of mentorship, she extends an invitation to all who seek guidance and support. “Join us on this transformative journey,” she urged, “where mentorship not only shapes futures but also cultivates a brighter tomorrow for all.”
In a world marked by uncertainty, mentorship emerges as a beacon of hope, illuminating pathways to success and empowerment. Through the unwavering dedication of individuals like Princess Awa-Ada Kisob, mentorship becomes a catalyst for positive change, fostering resilience, and unlocking boundless possibilities for generations to come.


