Middle school is a challenging time for many young people. From hormonal shifts to middle school drama, students are trying to figure out who they are while keeping up with grades and sports. It’s truly a pivotal time in a student’s life, and for students like Makai, these everyday pressures were layered with deeper emotional struggles too.
At Bunch Middle School in Los Angeles, Makai stood out for his potential, even if he hadn’t yet fully stepped into it yet. He struggled with emotional regulation and had a hard time staying calm in group settings, including the classroom. He originally expressed interest in joining Becoming a Man (BAM), a school-based program that helps young men build emotional resilience and develop core values like respect and accountability. However, during sixth and seventh grade, his counselor, Jesus Cisneros, made the difficult decision to hold off. Group circles require emotional safety, consistency, and the ability to respect others. At the time, Makai wasn’t ready.
Still, Jesus never stopped supporting him. They met one-on-one regularly. By the time Makai reached eighth grade, something changed. He approached Jesus and said, “I want to do BAM this year. I want to graduate.” From that point on, he stayed committed. He turned in assignments, kept his grades up to remain eligible for basketball, and became an engaged BAM student who looked forward to group circles each week.
Unfortunately, just a few weeks into the semester, Makai collapsed during basketball practice. He was rushed to the hospital, where he later passed away. The loss stunned the entire school.
The following morning, BAM counselors from across Los Angeles rushed to Bunch Middle School to support students and staff. They organized a grief circle to help the school process what had happened. More than 25 students participated, including several who were not enrolled in BAM. Some cried. Some stayed silent. Others shared stories. One student said, “I’m sad, but I can’t cry.” Another said, “At least we can laugh at the memories.” The BAM counselors created a safe space for the tragedy that students and staff witnessed and the loss they now had to live with.
Oftentimes, it is hard for us to realize how much what happens outside the classroom shows up inside it. Family stress, personal loss, and emotional trauma don’t stop when the bell rings. That includes the grief of losing a peer. Programs like BAM help students navigate these experiences and offer a consistent space to feel safe, supported, and heard.
Although Makai’s time in BAM was brief, it was meaningful. He had just begun to see himself differently. He was making progress and learning how to lead with responsibility and purpose. His story is a reminder of what is possible when students are given the structure, mentorship, and support they need to grow.
At Youth Guidance, we are committed to supporting students like Makai across Los Angeles. Through BAM, we continue helping young men navigate life’s challenges, build resilience, and create school communities where no one has to face hardship alone.