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Racing Toward Her Future: Help SHIELD Mentee Nilijah Get to Nationals

At the SHIELD Mentor Program, we are proud to nurture and celebrate young lives as they grow into confident, capable leaders. Today, we’re honored to share the story of Nilijah, one of our exceptional mentees whose journey reflects everything our mission stands for—leadership, academic excellence, and overcoming adversity.



Nilijah, SHIELD mentee and standout scholar-athlete, prepares for Nationals in Philadelphia.
Nilijah, SHIELD mentee and standout scholar-athlete, prepares for Nationals in Philadelphia.

Meet Nilijah

Nilijah is a graduating high school senior whose accomplishments are nothing short of inspiring. She's maintained straight A’s while holding leadership roles in student government, church, the National Honor Society, and her track and field team. Through it all, she’s remained grounded, driven, and deeply committed to making a difference—not only in her own life, but in the lives of those around her.


As a longtime participant in our SHIELD Saturday Leadership Academy (SSLA), Nilijah has developed key skills in time management, public speaking, and goal setting. She’s a living testament to the transformative power of mentorship.


Nilijah competing in track and field—she’s headed to Nationals this June.
Nilijah competing in track and field—she’s headed to Nationals this June.

A Dream Opportunity

Nilijah has recently been accepted to Howard University, where she will continue her journey as a student-athlete, running for the Track and Field team. But before she takes that next big step, she’s earned the chance to represent her school, her family, and her community on a national stage: Track & Field Nationals in Philadelphia, June 18–22.


This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to help SHIELD mentee, Nilijah. Competing at Nationals isn’t just about athletic success—it’s about growth, confidence, and the doors this experience could open for her future.



How You Can Help

SHIELD Mentor Program is proud to collect donations on behalf of Nilijah and her family to help her attend Nationals. We are seeking to raise $1,500 by June 14 to cover travel, lodging, and registration costs. All funds raised will go directly to support Nilijah’s trip.


Your donation helps more than one student attend a track meet. It tells Nilijah that her community stands with her. It affirms her hard work and proves that mentorship, opportunity, and belief can create powerful change.


Ways to Help SHIELD Mentee:

  • Make a donation: Every contribution brings us closer to our goal.

  • Share the campaign: Help us spread the word by posting on social media or sending this blog to someone who cares about young people’s success.

  • Connect us with sponsors: Do you know a business or organization that could support? Introductions are welcome!

📅 Deadline: June 14, 2025📍 Nationals: Philadelphia, June 18–22🎯 Goal: $1,500



Young Nilijah participating in a SHIELD Saturday Leadership Academy workshop—growing in leadership and purpose.
Young Nilijah participating in a SHIELD Saturday Leadership Academy workshop—growing in leadership and purpose.

Why This Matters

At SHIELD, we believe every young person benefits from having a mentor in their life. Nilijah is the embodiment of what can happen when that mentorship is matched with determination, faith, and opportunity.


Let’s show her that her community believes in her just as much as she believes in herself.


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