The winners of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bermuda awards were announced at a special ceremony in City Hall yesterday marking the start of Mentoring Month.

The Big Brother of the Year award went to Ryan Heyrana, whose Little Brother is JahNarzji Daniels-Wales, 13, while the winner of the Big Sister of the Year was announced as Giselle Outerbridge, whose Little Sister is Amiyah Anderson, 17.

There were tears in the audience and on the podium as JahNarzji revealed that he had lost his father in 2016, and that his mentor had filled an important gap in his life.

JahNarzji took to the stage in front of a full audience and said: “I miss [my father] very much.

“Since we met, Ryan has been a solid and active person in my life. We get along very well. We do fun activities like mini golf and boat outings, he takes me out to breakfast and other functions.

“He even let me have a pool party at his house with my friends. I am into gaming and he lets me play X-Box.

“Ryan also introduced me to ninjutsu, and I enjoy going to class with him. It teaches me how to defend myself and also to be disciplined. Ryan has also given me advice of how to deal with life and other things.

“We may not be related but he still feels like my biological brother. I want to grow up and be like him. He inspires me to be a better person.”

Ms Anderson said: “My Big Sister is an amazing human and mentor. Her direction and insightful advice have made me a better person. I don’t think I can ever thank her enough for everything she has done. Her useful advice will always remain with me. Thank you and I love you so much.”

There were further award winners in individual and company categories.

Patrina O’Connor Paynter, the managing director of BBBS, highlighted the benefits of becoming a mentor for a young person through the charity.

She said BBBS brings “experiences, exposure, partnerships, mentorship, all of us working together to make a difference in the lives of Bermuda’s youth”.

“Over the last couple of years, BBBS has grown into something beautiful. We have become a family — a full village that is looking out for the best interests of our youth in Bermuda.

“Each child deserves a fair chance and should have a circle of people looking out for them.

“Parents and legal guardians also need support and to know that someone cares. Through our programmes and community partnerships, we have been able to assist in many areas.

“We have over 150 children in our programme. We would like to see all of our children in this programme and beyond become successful adults in our community.

“My plea to Bermuda today is to encourage those who are doing right, doing something positive.

“Don’t vent on Facebook and social media about the ones that are not. Instead of doing that, get involved. If more of us got involved, the greater the impact would be.”

Koli Simons, a Little Brother, gave a prayer, calling on the community to “help our village to grow and bring about positive change in Bermuda”.

Tinèe Furbert, the Minister for Youth, Social Development and Seniors, addressed mentors, adding: “Mentoring is a life-changer. Your dedication does not go unnoticed. We see the impact you are making on our youth when parents or guardians fall short for whatever reason. Mentors stand in the gap.

“Mentoring goes beyond just sharing knowledge. It’s about nurturing growth, boosting confidence and providing unconditional support.

“I would like to extend an invitation to everyone to consider the power of mentorship, whether as a mentor or someone seeking guidance. It is a powerful exchange that strengthens our community.”

Kemani Dean, a Little Brother, said: “I encourage everyone to reflect on someone who has helped to make a difference in their lives and pledge to do the same for someone else.

“Remember, all of us have the power to make a difference.”