[ Our Mission | Why South Africa? | Our Work ]

Our Mission

Launched in 2008, Active Compassion Transforms is dedicated to fostering cross-cultural mentoring relationships with disadvantaged youth, inspiring them to complete their education, pursue their dreams and enrich their communities.

We take advantage of technology’s global reach to establish mentorships between New York City professionals and youth in other areas of the world. Using the online iMentor platform, mentors e-mail mentees 2-3 times a month, following a curriculum that delves into mentees’ goals, challenges, self-esteem and motivation. This cross-cultural experience culminates in a trip for mentees to meet their mentors in NYC at year-end.

The initial focus of our organization is Cape Town, South Africa. In the summer of 2008, ACT founder Erika Lee witnessed the educational, financial and health-related struggles facing youths in the region. She understood the powerful impact that role models could have on the future leaders of this nation and was inspired to launch ACT.

Our goal is to change South Africa by empowering its youth to address the issues plaguing their nation today.