MOULTRIE – A recent tour of PCOM South Georgia contributed to a local mentoring organization’s mission to mold the next generation.

Leadership Legends is a mentoring, nonprofit organization for African American youth. Its mission statement is “To provoke young African American males of Moultrie to critically think, question with curiosity and implement generational change.”

The “Legends,” as the mentees are called, have the opportunity to travel to a variety of different events and tours. The tours are designed to develop the skills needed to be the next leaders of Moultrie.

“I think it’s very beneficial for the Legends to be exposed to students that are studying to practice medicine and being able to hear their stories, backgrounds, and what they are currently going through in real time,” said Ralph Taylor II, a co-founder of Leadership Legends.

During the exposure tour at the medical college, an exercise illustrated the importance of problem-solving skills. The legends, mentors, and medical students worked on an activity that challenged their assumptions. Also, they had to rely on the other members of the group to find the answer.

“They got authentic usable information,” said Terence Johnson, another co-founder of the group.

The mentors, mentees, and medical students sat in a U-shaped sitting arrangement for the exercise. The conversation revolved around the questions “How can we stack good decisions day after day?” and “How can one wrong decision cost a person their freedom?”

The mentees heard the testimony of a young man who, at 16 years old, made one bad decision that cost him seven years of his life in the adult prison system.

“In those seven seconds, think about your decisions,” said Legend Gavin Henderson.

Then, a panel was set-up for the medical students and Robert Jason Walker, Ph.D., associate professor of physiology at PCOM South Georgia. The Legends asked the panel where they were from and to explain their journey of getting into PCOM. They also asked how they were able to continue succeeding.

“All of the qualities that Leadership Legends represents is perfectly displayed today, and it was an honor sharing experiences and stories with them,” said Gerardo Tabares, PCOM medical student.

After the meeting, the Legends were able to have a tour and see what PCOM had to offer. Tour leaders showed them the lab where students studied and learned about human anatomy. Another vital part of the school was the meditation room, used for reflection and relaxation. They also toured the simulation room. In there was a piece of equipment with multiple simulations that mimicked any healthcare setting. These were a few of what the Legends had the opportunity to learn about.

“I got great insight as to what goes on in here for the lives of students. Great tour,” said Legend Alexis Barge.