“Makayla is steadfast and a constant friend to those who want a true friendship without added drama.”, said

Nancy Thomas, Makayla’s long-time mentor in the Dinner & Devo program.” It has been such a blessing to be involved in Makayla’s life during high school, to watch her grow and mature into someone who is a deep thinker and cares for those in her life well.”

Makayla, a Pearl-Cohn senior, had this to say about Mrs. Nancy: “Mrs. Nancy is the best human being ever. When I doubt myself she lifts me up. She keeps pushing me to be the best me I can be.”

Sounds like mutual admiration and a successful mentor-mentee match!

Q: Makayla, what are three words to describe you?

A: Humble, semi-introvert and responsible.

Q: Who is someone living or dead that you would like to have lunch with?

A: Maya Angelou. I would ask her, “When Segregation was so bad during your life, how did you stay so positive and encouraging?”

Q: Who is someone you admire and why?

A: My mom. She has been taking care of us by herself for so long. She has a very independent spirit.

Q: What is your favorite subject in school?

A: It is more of a pathway…I really like cosmetology. I also like child development and would maybe like helping kids with special needs.

Q: What is your favorite PTM memory?

A: The Lake house retreat. All the water things were fun. Ladarius was tubing and lost his shorts in the water. It was very funny!

Q: What have you learned from your time at PTM?

A: I have learned to communicate better…to come together as one big family…I am more open to new things.

From being around Mr. Chan I have learned some things I like to do and some I don’t. Like hiking- I hope I never hike again.

A: Listening to music. I like music from the 1990’s.

Q: What is something in your life, for good or bad, that you feel was life-changing?

A: Switching high schools from Republic to Pearl. Pearl has more offerings and I am happier there.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

A: With a degree in something around cosmetology…maybe my own shop. I would like to be a homeowner, be married and maybe a child or two. I would like to travel.

Q: Fun facts about you?

A: I do not like any breakfast foods. I doodle a lot!

Some final thoughts from Mrs. Nancy, Makayla’s PTM mentor:

“Her job working at an assisted living facility shows her love and care for others as she serves seniors every week, making a difference in their day to day lives. I look forward to seeing what God has for her future as she begins this next phase of life after high school.”

Thank you, Makayla! We are excited to see your life unfold! Thank you, Nancy Thomas, for encouraging and loving Makayla!