Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Inland Empire is proud to present its finalists for 2026 Mentor of the Year representing the High School Bigs program!
These outstanding young leaders illustrate how peer mentoring helps high school students achieve their biggest possible futures while making a long-lasting impact on their mentees and their communities. These six mentors have not only demonstrated transformative dedication to their Littles, they have also been an integral part of the local mentoring movement as champions and advocates for mentorship on their campuses.
Each finalist will receive college and career funding to continue their impact; the two winners of the Angelitos Award will be announced on January 29 as part of National Mentoring Month.
Aleena Abdul Sattar, Centennial High School
Aleena built a strong and steady mentoring relationship with her Little Payton, whose confidence has grown through weekly STEM activities, homework support, and meaningful conversations. Seeing the impact of consistency firsthand inspired Aleena to re-charter the Big Brothers Big Sisters Club on her campus, where she now serves as President and actively recruits new mentors. Her passion for mentoring is rooted in her own experience growing up shy and helping her younger sister navigate online learning during the pandemic. With a 4.7 GPA and plans to pursue a degree in biology, Aleena leads with empathy, purpose, and a deep commitment to creating positive change for others.
Nichelle Harris, Pacific High School
Nichelle’s growth as a mentor mirrors the growth she has inspired in her Littles. After navigating early challenges with her first Little, Destiny, Nichelle developed the confidence and social skills that now define her leadership. This year, her bond with her Little Brother Raymound is filled with laughter, Minecraft conversations, and creative projects that feel like an older sister guiding a younger sibling. As a Big Ambassador, Nichelle consistently looks for ways to support staff, recruit new Bigs, and help wherever she’s needed (all while maintaining a 4.1 GPA!)
Tiana Pham, Cajon High School
Tiana has spent the past few years nurturing a powerful mentoring bond, supporting her Little as she grows in confidence and pursues her love of theater. Through patience and thoughtful guidance, Tiana has empowered her Little to shine both on stage and in everyday life. Her experience as a Big helped her discover a passion for working with children, inspiring her to volunteer at a daycare, an animal shelter, and her school’s Best Buddies Club. With over 275 community service hours, a 4.85 GPA, and plans to become a pediatric nurse, Tiana leads with heart, discipline, and unwavering commitment to uplifting others.
Ayden Franco, Eleanor Roosevelt High School
Ayden formed a meaningful connection with his Little Austin by taking the time to truly listen, helping transform early shyness into weekly fist bumps and smiles. Through mentoring, Ayden discovered his own leadership strengths, stepping into the Big Ambassador role and founding the Animal Conservation Club at his school. As treasurer, he helped organize cleanups, fundraisers, and partnerships that created a welcoming, family-like space for students. With a 3.8 GPA and plans to pursue nursing, Ayden’s empathy shines through everything he does.
Brandon Yucute, San Bernardino High School
Since his freshman year, Brandon has built a joyful and consistent mentoring relationship rooted in both encouragement and fun. He recognized his Little’s strong work ethic early on and helped nurture it while making sure their time together never lost its spark. Inspired by his experience as a Big, Brandon became deeply involved on campus as ASB Class President and a member of clubs like robotics and calculus. With over 50 volunteer hours and aspirations to study aerospace engineering, Brandon brings confidence and leadership into every space he serves.
Mitchell Gonzalez, Corona High School
Mitchell’s mentoring journey began long before his official match, tutoring Joel during homework club and later reuniting with him as a Big Brother. Over the years, Mitchell supported Joel through bullying and self-doubt, watching him grow into a resilient student ready for middle school. Determined to expand BBBS’ impact, Mitchell persisted through an initial failed club launch and eventually helped increase awareness and sign-ups as a Big Ambassador. Through these experiences, Mitchell found his voice as a leader and now plans to pursue public administration and a career in nonprofit work, continuing the cycle of service that mentoring began.
