Reflection on Mon’et

“June 29, 2024”

Thinking back, countless memories come flooding in, each one a testament to her vibrant spirit. From first meeting her, "It’s Monet like the artist, and don’t forget the apostrophe." Who could forget that introduction? She certainly made a lasting impression. And if you knew Monet even a brief period of time you know she was always on. Tell story of walk in DC her walk! 

I can vividly recall her elementary years, those oversized bows she loved to wear. I enjoyed teasing her a bit as a teen, reminding her of those giant bows and her adorable chubby cheeks when she used to hug me in the halls. Her eye roll was always accompanied by a big smile; she loved knowing I remembered all those little details about her.

Mone’t cherished talking about her upbringing, a testament to the loving environment her parents created. She often showed me baby pictures, beaming with pride at how cute she was. (When pregnant with Kennedy I joked I hope she has cheeks like that and bows) 

She proudly proclaimed herself a Daddy’s Girl, a bond we both shared.Marvin, we declared you Kenough)  I affectionately referred to her as "Little Demetra. Being likened to her mom was one of the greatest compliments she could receive. She embraced a nurturing role among our girls, adopting her mother’s mannerisms and phrases. She became their counselor, always watchful, caring and fiercely loyal.

Despite her tender age of just 16, she made a profound impact on our hearts and in her community. Mone’t and I often discussed our hopes for our community. She yearned to stand out against negative influences and advocated for more mentors who looked like her. True to her word, she became a mentor herself to a sweet first-grade student. Mone’t possessed a heart of gold, her sincerity shining through as she became a change-maker and a steadfast friend.

At our organization, she epitomized the heart of our programs, particularly as she led the Reading Buddy Program at MSA. She endeared herself to both volunteers and children alike, serving as a role model and inspiring others to follow in her footsteps. Her impact extended far beyond the program; she touched lives deeply and left an indelible mark wherever she went.

Above all, to me and so many others, Mone’t was family. She remembered everyone’s birthdays and didn't miss the opportunity to send me well wishes on Mother’s Day (or as she called it before I became a mother, Mentor’s Day). We will all miss her infectious laughter, her stories that kept us entertained, and her unwavering presence as my theater partner, mentee, office sidekick and family.

Ja’Keena completed her mentorship 2021-2022

Ja’Keena is the eldest of four and a really good help for her mother. She graduated from Sanders-Clyde Elementary School in 2018, and Simmons-Pinckney Middle School in 2022. Her 8th grade year, she won the Championship Award for her middle school- given to one 8th grader and one 12th grader at each school in CCSD. She is a member of the Leading Ladies Girls’ Empowerment Group. She truly loves fashion- her dream is to have her own boutique before she turns 25.

Bio coming soon.