Today we’d like to introduce you to Marsheeka Oveal.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Marsheeka. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Started from the bottom in 3rd Ward, Houston, TX. “The hood” pushed me to be the woman I am today; an overcomer with resilient and unwavering faith. From an absentee mother to raising my younger brother, while in pursuit to successfully becoming a first-generation college graduate- my trials and achievements have helped to shape me into the woman I am today. It’s a feeling best described as an emptiness when you haven’t fully discovered your purpose. Through various encounters with God, he revealed to me that I’m supposed to be in ministry, turning my inadequacies into vehicle of change for the youth in underserved Houston communities. I want to be the example- that you can come from “the hood” and still make something out of your life.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I wish I could say it was a smooth road but it wasn’t; many trials and tribulations. Just imagine being 18 years old, raising a ten years old boy; in pursuit of finding yourself. Crazy right? First-generation college student, working a full-time job to pay bills, and teaching my little brother how to be responsible and ensuring he is getting homework completed. During that time, I fought silent battles of depression and anxiety. I lacked confidence which stemmed from not knowing who I was, that’s why I believe self-discovery and purpose discovery must work together.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Shalom Mentoring – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
Shalom Mentoring is a youth mentorship program that focuses on self-discovery, self-confidence and self-empowerment. Our mission is to guide our future leaders of tomorrow, ensuring they know who they are, whose they are, and how to discover their purpose here on Earth. Our vision is to empower young women and young men away from shame and insecurities and towards wholeness and self-love through mentoring.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Shalom Mentoring 12 month mentoring program that launches January 2021. We are excited to announce we are looking for volunteers to help carry out Shalom’s mission. Our goal is to pair a mentor with a mentee. Every mentor will go through a training program before they are matched with a mentee. As I challenge myself to continue serving my community, I want to challenge YOU; to pour back into the communities that made you, where ever that is. We look forward to partnering with other youth organizations to serve our Houston communities.
Contact Info:
- Website: shalommentoring.org
- Phone: 8328195585
- Email: shalommentoring@gmail.com
- Instagram: @shalommentoring
- Facebook: shalommentoring
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