After almost two years of being under construction, the South Broward High School auditorium came back to life on December 2, 2025, as students, families, and staff gathered for the Annual Mentoring Tomorrow’s Leaders (MTL) and 5000 Role Models Induction Ceremonies.
According to Principal Alexander Francois, the auditorium received new soundboards to improve acoustics, and a new interior paintjob.
The Induction Ceremony marked a symbolic return to tradition, leadership, and community as 47 SBHS students were inducted into the two organizations that emphasize the importance of mentorship in today’s world.
For MTL sponsor Ms. Tywana Greene the ceremony symbolized a fresh start—not just for the auditorium, but for the students stepping into leadership roles.
“Programs like MTL and 5000 Role Models give students guidance, connection, and purpose,” she said.
This year’s induction welcomed both new and returning members, reinforcing the school’s commitment to service and fostering a new generation. Students received their uniforms, took their oaths, and pledged to uphold the values of mentorship.
Mentoring Tomorrow’s Leaders (MTL) is a student leadership program that serves students in Middle and High School with an emphasis on high school programming. MTL promotes academic advancement, pupil progression, student engagement and successful school completion utilizing the MTL Five Pillars: Academic Achievement, Peer Mentoring, Family Involvement, Community Support, Student Enrichment and Incentives. It is unique in that the mentorship is done on a peer-to-peer level.
Mentors befriend their Mentees, discussing their academic and social lives, and help them stay on the right path.
MTL Secretary inductee and SBHS junior Kaitlynn Montgomery, 16, credits MTL with strengthening her communication skills. She says it’s taught her more patience and understanding over the past year.
“Being in the program has helped me become a more intentional leader,” she said.
Montgomery also stressed the importance the group has on its younger mentees.
“It has also pushed me to be a positive example for younger students and to take responsibility for the impact I have on others.” Montgomery says.
The event hosted various members of the community, including club alumni, firefighters from the “Forged in Fire” organization and the head of 5000 Role Models and MTL themselves.
MTL senior Executive Board Members took their oaths first, followed by mentors who are Juniors and Seniors then mentees, Freshmen and Sophomores.
“Seeing them take their oaths and commit to these values was powerful,” Greene said.
Brian Bros, South Broward Alumni and former 5000 Role Models President took the stage to inspire the students in the same shoes he was in just a few years ago.
Bros is an example of the leadership the Mentoring programs at SBHS produce. He’s a current University of Miami student, studying Political Science on the Pre-Law track, attending on a Full-Ride Scholarship.
Next up was the ceremony for 5000 Role Models. Sponsor and U.S. History Teacher Mr. Christopher Hay described the event as eye‑opening and praised the students for their preparation and professionalism.
Founded by Congresswoman Fredrica S. Wilson in Miami-Dade County in 1993, to equip young men with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to succeed, while fostering self-respect and a strong sense of identity.
Their vision is: “Every student will graduate from high school, pursue higher education, vocational training, or military service, and be empowered to become a contributing and self-sustaining member of society.”
Mr. Hay believes the program is important because some kids in the community don’t have consistent role models at home.
“A lot of kids are looking for something to hold on to,” he said. “These programs give them direction, discipline, and a voice.” he said.
Hay also shared his long‑term vision for the program, including a planned trip to Tallahassee to give students exposure to leadership opportunities across the state. He would like the group to explore business connections and the political world of Tallahassee.
Coach Hay commenced the 5000 Role Models Ceremony soon with the motto he lives by.
“I talked to the young men and women about the “4 Cs”: Christ, crib, credit, and career. Before they choose a partner or build a life, those four areas need to be aligned.” Hay said
He hopes this philosophy can help kids that struggle to stay on track.
“Many kids don’t see that today, so it’s my job as a man of God to help break that cycle and help them build stamina in their personal lives and futures.” He said.
Antonio Burgess, Coordinator of 5000 Role Models for Broward County also took the stage with a message of guidance.
After the speeches, the young men of 5000 Role Models lined up for the tie tying ceremony, in which they went to any of the male role models on stage to tie their 5000 Role Models branded tie in a symbolic torch passing notion.
Senior Noel Batista, one of the students inducted this year, said the experience felt both sudden and exciting.
“I had just joined, but it was super cool to be part of the first event back in the auditorium,” he said.
After the ceremony concluded, students got to learn from Forged in Fire, a group of South Floridian Firefighters. They told insightful stories about their jobs and their lives.
In fact, Noel’s favorite moment came during a long conversation with the firefighters, encouraging students to explore career paths that give back to and protect the community.
“Meeting them was definitely the best part,” Noel said. “It made the whole ceremony feel real.”
For Noel, 5000 Role Models has also made an impact.
“It’s helped me lock in more with my classes and think about my future,” he said. “I want to stay involved and keep helping others.”
Through programs like 5000 Role Models and MTL, students are given the tools, support, and community they need to grow into the leaders of tomorrow.
