From Tired Man to Fireman: Toward a Sangoma Model of Mentoring Black Male College Students

Abstract

This chapter introduces the “Sangoma model” and how it contrasts with traditional mentoring or coaching models. The concept of Sangoma as practiced in South Africa is best embodied in Western society by the character Rafiki in the Disney movie The Lion King. Too often, mentors or coaches can appear as an older “know-it-all” person who can foster the mentee’s success if they listen and do what they are told. Comparatively, a Sangoma is a traditional healer and spiritualist whose actions and engagement are culturally rooted and center on self-empowerment of Black males, in addition to guidance and direction. This is particularly important as research shows that many Black boys and men come from communities where they have experienced trauma and moral injury over an extended period of time. Therefore, the success of Black male collegians is not simply a psychological matter, but a physiological matter requiring intervention with their minds, bodies, and spirits. The chapter also includes a case study of a non-traditional Black male collegian who describes his engagement with an African-centered instructor who strives to embody the Sangoma model as fundamental to his academic success. The Sangoma model emphasizes life path and purpose, and it extends beyond graduation. As such, the faculty was also involved with helping his former student to become a fireman, the career of his childhood dreams.