For Mother Teresa Middle School (MTMS) alum Yetunde Ogundibo, one of the biggest lessons she carries with her today is practicing gratitude. Looking back, she recognizes how many opportunities and experiences shaped her time at MTMS. As a student, she was able to participate in activities and events that broadened her perspective and created lasting memories. It wasn't until later that she fully understood the dedication and support required to make those experiences possible.
"As kids, you don't realize how much work goes into making those things happen. We were allowed to have fun, but we were also taught to practice gratitude. I still cherish that today. To just take a moment to appreciate what you are experiencing and where you are at,” shared Yetunde.
A Community Beyond the Classroom
What stands out most to Yetunde about MTMS is the school's support system. The focus on the whole person and commitment to working alongside families and the larger community played a role in her decision to pursue a degree in Human Justice, which she recently completed in May.
“MTMS really focuses on community,” she said. “I admired so much the work that they did. They understand that student success is shaped not only by what happens at the school but also by the people who surround and support them. I wanted to continue that work in my own way,” she shared.
MTMS Mentorship
As a middle school student, Yetunde had a mentor who left a lasting impact on her. “She was a boss lady,” Yetunde laughed. “At that age I thought, ‘Wow, she’s very important,’ and she still made time to see me.” For Yetunde, seeing someone outside of her everyday circle opened her eyes to new possibilities and demonstrated the importance of mentorship.
Years later, when MTMS invited Yetunde to become a mentor herself, she didn’t hesitate. “I jumped on the opportunity because I was able to give back to a community that poured so much into me.”
Today, Yetunde mentors MTMS student Cria and says the experience has become meaningful for both of them. “She’s very creative and honestly inspires me so much. We draw, paint, learn new things together and share our interests. It’s been amazing,” said Yetunde. Cria agrees, “I like everything about her, she is funny, athletic, and has a great personality. I have actually improved a lot and have benefited from her guidance.”
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
One of Yetunde’s proudest accomplishments has been completing her Bachelor of Human Justice degree. “There were challenges financially, academically, and with obstacles in everyday life,” she shared. “But MTMS played a big role in that success for me. I will forever be grateful for that.”
Currently Yetunde is focused on pursuing a career in policing and is considering further studies in social work to open even more possibilities within the profession. Inspired by the support she received throughout her own journey, she hopes to build a career centred around helping others. “I obviously benefited from the support I received,” she said. “And I really hope to keep that going for others too.”