Mr. Otet Richard, a mentor from Amuria district, Apeduru sub-county, Apeduru parish, Ageutu Middle East village, vividly remembers the moment he was selected to join the Real Fathers Project as a mentor. He was enthusiastic about the opportunity to share his experiences and guide young fathers, yet the anticipation of the rigorous vetting process left him feeling somewhat apprehensive. The process, known for its thoroughness, involved detailed background and reference checks, followed by intensive training sessions. Initially, Richard was uncertain about whether he would meet the standards set by the program.

As Richard navigated through each stage, however, he began to recognize the significance of the vetting process. It was designed not only to assess the qualifications of potential mentors but also to ensure that those selected were genuinely motivated and equipped to make a positive impact. The process allowed Richard to reflect deeply on his own motivations and abilities, helping him grow both personally and professionally.

When Richard was finally matched with his first mentee, Omoding Isaac, he felt fully prepared. The comprehensive vetting and training had instilled in him the confidence and skills necessary to offer meaningful guidance. In their initial meetings, Richard observed a noticeable transformation in Isaac, who was gradually shifting from a struggling young father to a more confident and engaged parent. Isaac began to prioritize his relationship with his son, and their bond has continued to grow stronger with each interaction.

Reflecting on his journey, Richard shared, “The vetting process was tough, but it made me a better mentor. I’m proud to be part of the Real Fathers Project, knowing that we’re making a real difference in the lives of young fathers and their families.”

The success of Richard’s mentoring journey highlights the value of the Real Fathers Project’s stringent mentor vetting process. Through ensuring that only the most qualified, empathetic, and dedicated individuals are selected, the project is able to create lasting, positive impacts on the lives of young fathers and their families.