Big Sister Felisha and Little Sister Ta'Korei
Big Sister Felisha and Little Sister Ta’Korei first met in November 2011. Felisha describes her and her Little as “inseparable” now, but when they first met, that wasn’t always the case. Both had doubts about whether they could have fun together.
However, they soon learned just how wrong they were, quickly connecting due to their kindred vibrant energy. Their relationship blossomed over 15 years of active outings, shopping, and talking up a storm. Felisha remained very present in her Little’s life through difficult situations, and Ta’Korei felt the difference it made in her life to have someone show up for her so consistently.
“Felisha was something that I didn't know I needed when I was six years old. But now that I'm 21, I couldn't imagine that woman not in my life…And I think it was fate, really,” shared Ta’Korei.
More than that, Ta’Korei knew her Big Sister was invested in her future and believed in her potential. From a young age, the Little loved the stage, the spotlight, and most of all, singing. After starting by joining talent shows and competitions, the young singer now has her own band and books gigs across Fort Wayne. Felisha attends almost every performance.
“She's just been very present for me in ways that I didn't imagine her to be. I didn't imagine her to be so involved or so invested in me, in my future, and in my goals… She just seems so proud to talk about me,” explained Ta’Korei.
Although Ta’Korei will soon turn 22 years old and graduate from the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, their friendship is stronger than it has ever been. Neither can envision life without the other. They’ve become family, and their bond is here to stay.
“I cannot see a future not knowing what she does, whether she goes somewhere else, whether she gets married and has kids and stuff. I still want to be involved,” said Felisha.
Be Big!
Mentorship gives youth the confidence to succeed, knowing that they have someone cheering them on as they chase their dreams. To Felisha, this makes the small amount of time you invest as a mentor completely worth it. Fifteen years later, she has no regrets about joining and knows that others who volunteer will soon feel the same.
To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters, visit www.bbbsnei.org or call 260-456-1600.
