One of the most challenging moments for the entire world this year has been the recurring lockdown due to the "corona virus" pandemic. Not only has the situation caused regression in families and communities, it has also negatively impacted the day-to-day operations of organizations, businesses, companies, major corporations and governments.  The closure of country borders and airports makes it impossible for our mentorship program facilitator to travel to The Gambia for face-to-face sessions.

As a second-year mentee in the Coaches of Influence Foundation iMentor Global Mentorship program, I was pondering on a host of questions that invaded my mind.  My biggest concern and internal question was; "what will happen to the passionate mentees (such as myself) and our goals for 2020 and beyond?" The anxiety multiplied by the day as news of the global devastation circulated on every news outlet.  I continued to ponder on a multitude of questions such as; "What does the future hold for the youth in the mentorship program?", What is the likelihood of COIF being able to continue the program in 2020 and even 2021? When is Covid-19 going to end? The greatest question being, how can "influence" be applied during this time?

Having answered these questions, I was relieved when I received news that COIF leaders have considered the importance of our future as mentees. Our facilitator - Dr. Margaret felt that we are so passionate and needed someone to continue to take interest in our lives at all times. She relentlessly encouraged us to keep pushing on and kept talking to us about the beauty and fulfillment that is attained when our purposes are fulfilled. With "influence', being her brand, she never failed to keep positively influencing us to invest in buying data for our online sessions, work on our assignments and goals and continue to invest.

Author: Bernadette Mendy

Editor:  Dr. Margaret Ellis