This National Mentoring Month, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward is thrilled to announce its Bigs of the Year, Brian McGrath and Samara Minichiello. Brian and Samara will be celebrated at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward’s annual Big Thank You Breakfast presented by Bank of America at 8:30 a.m. on January 25, at The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Convention Center.

 

Big Brother Brian, who has been matched with his Little Bryson for four years, says he can’t believe how profoundly his perspective and approach to life has changed because of his relationship with his Little.

 

“Watching him grow from a curious eight-year-old to an engaging twelve-year-old has been an incredible journey that has expanded my own world in ways I never expected,” he says. “Bryson’s boundless enthusiasm and genuine curiosity have been infectious, pushing me to see the world with more wonder and to approach experiences with the same open-minded excitement that he brings to every interaction.”

 

Brian notes that Bryson also has changed from a hesitant 8-year-old to a confident, engaged pre-teen.  Brian enrolled Bryson in the Fort Lauderdale YMCA youth league, which was pivotal experience for Bryson, introducing him to the challenges of teamwork, personal growth, and emotional resilience. Brian also consistently has worked with Bryson on his academics, which has resulted in considerably improved grades. Throughout the mentoring process, Brian also has offered guidance and perspective to Bryson as he grows and develops crucial life skills.

 

“Brian has helped me learn determination,” Bryson says.  “As difficult and challenging as things may be, you have to believe in yourself and keep pursuing your dreams. My experience has been amazing, and I would not have accomplished all that I have and learned so many life lessons if it wasn’t for Brian.”

 

Like Brian and Bryson, Big Sister of the Year Samara Minichiello says her strong, 3-year relationship with her Little Jahniya has changed both of their lives.

 

Samara says Jahniya, now 13, is the poster child for resilience. Jahniya is being raised by her 33-year-old mother and her grandmother, both of whom have critical medical issues and could pass away at any moment. Her father has ten other children and shows no interest in being a part of her life.

 

Sadly, when Jahniya’s mom fell behind on the rent, they ended up homeless. After months of couch surfing, living in rental cars, missing school, and dealing with the loss of her belongings, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward helped her mother place Jahniya in a children’s shelter. Now she’s back with her family renting a bedroom in someone else’s home.

 

“Jahniya embodies resilience and adaptability,” says Samara. “She never complains, she just she pivots and figures things out. She inspires me, and I wish others could see her like I do. I stay strong as a role model and remind her that we can get through anything together.”

 

Samara works to empower Jahniya by helping her see herself as the hero of her own story rather than as a villain or victim. Together they have established values prioritizing honesty and trust, which forms a strong foundation for their relationship. They attend church together, which has brought a powerful influence of faith into their lives and relationship.

 

“Our shared spiritual journey ignites Jahniya’s potential and will help her secure a bright future. We talk about how she is going to come out of this season equippedwell  beyond her peers, and she will have the honor of passing on what she learned to those who will need her as their guide one day.”

 

In addition to the Bigs of the Year, several other notable awards will be presented at the Big Thank You Breakfast, including High School Big Sister of the Year Jasmine Bush, Defender of Potential Vandylia Caldwell-Dent, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County Employee of the Year Tamara Ryan and Corporate Partner of the Year, The Grant Cardone Foundation.

 

In addition to presenting sponsor Bank of America, sponsors of the Big Thank You Breakfast include JM Family Enterprises, Ana G. Mendez University, BBX Capital, Memoria Healthcare System and OneDigital. Guests are $65 per person and there  is no charge for active Bigs.  For more information and to RSVP, please visit https://www.bbbsbroward.org/big-thank-you-breakfast/.