mentor interview | tony banning: From Business Crusader to Head of Hope

Tony Banning, TRINICY Mentor and Head of Public Relations, attending his niece's quinceañera celebration with his beautiful family

WHO IS TONY?

Tony Banning wasn't always the beaming advocate for Christ and champion of youth that he is today. He walks a path illuminated by faith, but his beginning was shrouded in rejection and adversity. This is the story of a man saved from darkness and his subsequent mission to share the light with young hearts seeking their own way.
 
Q: Tony, let's start at the beginning. Who is the Tony that God saved out of darkness?
A: There was a time when chasing ambition was replaced by chasing purpose. My focus was on climbing the corporate ladder, building businesses, and accumulating what society deemed success. It was a hollow victory, built on sand. Through personal struggles and a growing emptiness, I finally surrendered to God's calling. That's when the real journey began.
 
Q: Who are you in Christ today?
A: I wear many hats – consultant, entrepreneur, educator, but at the core, I'm a servant of God. My life is a testament to His transformative power. Now, my greatest fulfillment comes from sharing that transformation with others, especially younger generations navigating their own paths.
 
Q: Why TRINICY? What drew you to this online mentorship program when you could have chosen from so many other options?
A: I can’t take credit for anything and firmly believe God connected me with Trinicy. I wanted to be part of a humble, authentic, and forward-thinking ministry in a remote capacity when I saw a job posted on LinkedIn for a mentor. I saw in Trinicy a beacon of hope, a platform where faith intersects with real-life guidance. It's not just about discipleship, it's about walking alongside young Christians, sharing wisdom, and empowering them to make informed choices. That resonated deeply with my own story and my desire to pay it forward.
 
Q: Why online mentorship? Do you think virtual connections can truly impact young hearts?
A: In today's world, online spaces are where young minds spend a significant amount of time. Trinicy leverages this familiarity to offer accessible, on-demand guidance. Mentorship transcends physical limitations, providing a safe space for open dialogue and support regardless of geographical barriers.
 
Q: You've been mentoring young men in the program for a while now. What are some of the highlights and challenges?
A: The highs are witnessing their "aha" moments, seeing them gain confidence, and navigating life's hurdles with newfound faith. The lows are facing anxieties, temptations, and economic uncertainties they grapple with. But the dynamics are beautiful – a mutual exchange of learning, where I share my experiences and they challenge me with their fresh perspectives. Both sides leave enriched.
 
Q: You juggle so many roles – how do you manage it all and still thrive as a mentor?
A: Time management is key. I go to bed at 8 p.m. and wake up at 2:00 a.m. Monday to Saturday. From the time I wake up until I go to bed, I am time-blocked and make the most of everyone/every meeting/every person/ everyday. Of course, what truly fuels my energy is the purpose behind it all. Each role serves a greater mission – building a legacy of faith and empowering future generations. When a person’s work aligns with God’s calling, it ceases to be work and becomes a labor of love.
 
Q: For older Christian men considering taking the Great Commission more seriously, what would you say?
A: Don't let age or self-doubt hold you back. You possess a wealth of experience and wisdom that can light the way for young minds. Step out of your comfort zone, embrace new ways of connecting, and watch your life take on a deeper meaning.
 
Q: Anything else you'd like to share that paints a fuller picture of you for our readers?
A: I'm an avid reader, a terrible joke teller, and a firm believer in laughter's healing power. My greatest joy comes from spending time with family, whether it's hiking in the mountains or having theological debates over dinner.

CONNECT WITH OUR MENTOR

Tony joined TRINICY in the Spring of 2023 as a Mentor. He has worked with male mentees from India and South Africa, leading them through a three-month Bible study, while also providing extra guidance on their academic, professional, and ministerial goals.  Connect with Tony on LinkedIn. ​

JOIN THE GREAT COMMISSION!

To apply to TRINICY's Online Mentorship Program as a Mentor or a Mentee, please visit www.trinicy.org/omp or click HERE.