On Saturday November 15, 2025, the Rites of Passage Leadership Academy (ROP) of the 100 Black Men of South Metro Atlanta hosted one of its most impactful programs of the year: a Mental Health & Wellness Workshop delivered in partnership with the National Coalition of 100 Black Women – MECCA Chapter and their Little Ladies of Mecca.

With our largest student turnout of the program year, the session brought together parents, mentees, community partners, and mental health experts for a transformational morning of honesty, learning, and leadership development.

Why Mental Health Matters for Our Young Men

Mental health continues to be a critical component of youth development—especially for Black boys, who often face unique pressures, expectations, and unspoken emotional burdens. At ROP, our mission goes beyond academic success. We are committed to shaping emotionally resilient, socially aware, and mentally equipped young leaders.

This workshop was designed to give our mentees real strategies for navigating stress, self-awareness, relationships, self-esteem, and decision-making—all essential competencies for their current lives and future success.

Dynamic & Powerful Presentations

We were honored to learn from two extraordinary thought leaders and mental health professionals:

Dr. Patricia Marsh

Dr. Marsh delivered a captivating session on emotional wellness, self-regulation, and identity awareness. Her relatable storytelling, practical tools, and clear action steps helped our mentees understand not only what they feel—but why they feel it and how to manage their emotions effectively.

She challenged the young men to think about:

• How they communicate their needs
• The importance of self-reflection
• The power of choosing their responses

Her session was empowering, honest, and immediately applicable.

Dr. Dwight Owens

As both a Board Certified Psychiatrist and a member of our own 100 Black Men of South Metro Atlanta Chapter, Dr. Owens brought authenticity and lived experience to the room. He spoke openly about resilience, perseverance, and the importance of mental stability for young Black men in today’s world.

Through transparency and heartfelt stories he emphasized:

• The importance of accountability
• Managing peer pressure
• Understanding emotional triggers
• Seeking help without shame

His message not only informed—but inspired.

Leadership Presence From National 100

We were also proud to welcome Ms. Chanterries Roberts, Senior Programs Manager at 100 Black Men of America, whose presence underscored the importance of unified leadership and national support. Her engagement affirmed the significance of this work and encouraged our mentees to continue showing up fully for themselves.

The Impact Was Immediate

By the end of the session, the room was filled with:

• New conversations
• New confidence
• New awareness
• New connections

Mentees left with a clearer understanding of themselves and a stronger sense of community support. Parents expressed gratitude for the transparency, the tools shared, and the safe space created for their young men to grow.

This workshop was not just an event — it was a turning point.