A Bond Beyond Mentorship
When we recently sat down with Alee and her mentor, Yolanda (Yoli), you could feel the energy between them—a warmth that radiated from their bond, forged through years of shared experiences and unwavering support. Their story is one of connection, growth, and a love that has evolved beyond mentorship into family.
When Alee was in third grade at Prestwood Elementary, she was going through a difficult time in her personal life. Amid the challenges, she found comfort in a familiar face—Yoli, a family friend and a mom to two boys at Prestwood. There was something about Yoli that drew Alee in—a connection she couldn’t quite explain. So, in a moment of courage that was remarkable for her age, Alee approached Yoli and asked, “Will you be my mentor?”
Yoli was surprised but touched by the request. Alee had already taken the steps to make it happen, reaching out to the Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance to facilitate the match. After discussions with Yoli’s husband and children, along with training and support from the Mentoring Alliance, the match was made official—and the journey began.
For years, their days followed a familiar rhythm. Yoli would pick Alee up for school in the morning and, after the school day ended, take her to the salon she owned. The salon became a second home for Alee —a place filled with love, creativity, and the hum of busy life. Helping out at the salon gave Alee a sense of purpose and belonging, while Yoli ensured she stayed busy and engaged.
Their bond extended beyond the salon. Weekly breakfasts became a cherished tradition, often followed by errands and shopping trips for beauty supplies. One of their special rituals involved cooking Albondigas soup—a hearty meatball soup with vegetables that Yoli made just for Alee. Over time, Yoli taught Alee how to perfect the recipe herself. “Now I want Alee’s soup,” Yoli laughs. “She’s my sweetie bear.”
As Alee grew older, Yoli navigated the delicate balance of being both a mentor and a guiding presence. “There comes a time when they pull away a little,” Yoli reflects. “It’s not that they don’t love you—it’s them growing their own wings. As mentors, we have to know when to step back, let them face challenges, and learn to stand on their own. It builds their character and confidence.”
That confidence has served Alee well. Inspired by her time at the salon and a family history rooted in the beauty industry, Alee pursued a career in cosmetology. With Yoli and her Dad’s support, she explored beauty schools, navigated the financial process, and ultimately achieved her dream. Today, Alee runs her own business doing eyelash extensions, with a physical location near Sonoma Valley High School.
Reflecting on their journey, Yoli describes the profound impact mentoring has had on both of them. “Alee is like the daughter I always wanted,” she says. “I have my two boys and now a daughter. This is a lifelong commitment. I plan to be by her side for everything in life.”
Their story is a testament to the power of mentoring—the way it can shape a young person’s future while also enriching the life of the mentor. From navigating the challenges of adolescence to celebrating milestones like high school graduation and starting a business, Alee and Yoli have walked through life’s ups and downs together. And as they sit side by side, their admiration and love for each other is unmistakable—a bond that began with a simple question and has blossomed into a lifelong connection.