ORLANDO, Fla. – A historically Black fraternity is taking an innovative approach to mentorship, connecting young scholars with professional leaders through rapid-fire networking sessions.
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity hosted its first “speed mentoring” event in Orlando, bringing together 20 young men with prominent Central Florida business and community leaders.
“There’s a misconception that young men of color have an achievement gap when really it’s an opportunity gap,” said Derek Walls. “When we can bring in professionals...it does nothing but benefit those young men because it gives them a bar they can attain to be and it also gives them a good contact.”
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The event featured three-minute lightning rounds where students could network with professionals across various fields, including judges, lawyers, educators, journalists and entrepreneurs.
For Khalil Dexter, an aspiring chemical engineer, the experience proved invaluable.
“It was a great experience. I got to meet a bunch of different people. I made a lot of connections and people willing to reach out and support me,” he said.
The speed mentoring initiative is part of the fraternity’s broader “Kappa League” mentoring program, which focuses on developing leadership skills through personal development and college and career preparation.
This event marks a new chapter in the organization’s commitment to scholarship and service, providing direct access to professional mentors who can help guide young men toward their career aspirations.