By Tiffany Nguyen, Vice President at Citizens Bank and Board Member at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island

Spring is a time of renewal and growth, a perfect opportunity to reflect on the impact we can have on the next generation. For me, one of the most meaningful ways I lead and give back is through mentorship. My husband and I have been a "Big Couple" with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island (BBBSRI) for over five years, and it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of our lives.

When we first considered becoming Mentors, we were drawn to the idea of mentoring together. We saw it as an opportunity to share our strengths, support each other in this role, and offer our Mentee a broader perspective. Being a Big Couple allowed us to integrate mentorship into our everyday lives, creating natural, meaningful experiences. From sharing meals and playing sports to attending community events, our Mentee became a part of our world, and we became part of his.

Throughout these five years, we’ve witnessed incredible growth in our Mentee. We've seen him navigate challenges, celebrate milestones, and develop confidence in his abilities. And we’ve grown too—as individuals, as Mentors, and as a couple. Mentoring as a couple has also given us the opportunity to model healthy relationships and teamwork. Our Mentee sees how we communicate, solve problems, and support each other, which we hope serves as a positive example for his own future relationships.

Recent research from Big Brothers Big Sisters of America underscores what we've experienced firsthand: mentorship matters. Youth with mentors are 20% more likely to attend college, and within 18 months, they show lower absenteeism and fewer suspensions. These numbers reflect the lasting, positive impact a mentor can have, and they’re a reminder that small, consistent efforts make a difference.

Right now, more than 300 boys are waiting for Mentors at BBBSRI. Many of these boys could benefit from having a Big Couple in their lives. You don’t need to be perfect to Mentor, just present, and the rewards are immeasurable. The laughter, the conversations, the moments of growth—these are the memories that stay with you. Our Mentee has taught us as much as we’ve taught him. He’s shown us resilience, curiosity, and strength. And he’s reminded us of the simple joys of learning and exploring together.

As we embrace this season of new beginnings, I encourage anyone looking to make a difference to consider mentorship, whether individually or alongside a partner. It’s an opportunity to lead, to give back, and to be part of something larger than yourself. Through mentorship, we can help shape futures, build stronger communities, and grow in ways we never imagined.

If you're thinking about becoming a Mentor, I invite you to learn more about BBBSRI at BigsRI.org/BeaBig.  The impact you can have is profound—for your Mentee, your community, and yourself.