the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Kingmakers of Oakland (KOO). Before launching KOO, he served as the first Executive Director of the African American Male Achievement (AAMA) Office within the Oakland Unified School District—the nation’s first district-level initiative focused on improving outcomes for Black boys. A lifelong educator and advocate, Chatmon’s work centers love, leadership, and liberation as tools for transforming education. His vision and commitment have inspired equity-driven programs nationwide. He holds an M.A. in Education from Brown University and a B.A. in Psychology from San Francisco State University.

Chief Program Officer at Kingmakers of Oakland, bringing nearly thirty years of equity-centered educational leadership in the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD). As a teacher, principal and district executive, he championed access, rigor and culturally responsive systems for Black and Brown scholars. At OUSD he led the High School Network, founded a “No D” grading policy and drove increased A-G completion rates. In his current role, Matin ensures district partners receive best-in-class services aligned with our mission. He holds a B.A. from Stockton State University and an M.A. from the University of California, Berkeley.

the Senior Executive Assistant to the CEO at Kingmakers of Oakland, where he leads with a people-centered approach that turns vision into action. He has strengthened executive operations, streamlined systems, and fostered a culture of collaboration and excellence. With over a decade of experience supporting C-suite leaders, Kevin is known for his strategic thinking, creative problem-solving, and calm professionalism. He is passionate about building inclusive, high-performing workplaces where people and ideas thrive.

the Managing Director of Finance & Technology at Kingmakers of Oakland, where he leads efforts to expand access to education, skill development, and career success for underserved communities. A mission-driven leader, he integrates expertise across education, journalism, multimedia production, and workforce development to help students of color realize their potential. Brenden holds a Master’s in Educational Technology from the University of San Francisco and is committed to creating innovative, equity-centered solutions that close opportunity gaps.

the Operations & Finance Manager for Kingmakers of Oakland. Inspired by a high school teacher who recognized her financial acumen, she pursued a career in finance across private, government, education, and nonprofit sectors. At Kingmakers, Makisha has stepped more fully into her purpose—working alongside others who share her passion for empowering youth. A true servant leader, she is guided by kindness, grace, and love, and is dedicated to uplifting others as she was once uplifted.

the Media & Technology Manager for Kingmakers of Oakland, where he leverages his expertise in audio and visual production to bring powerful stories to life. With a versatile skill set spanning live events, studio recording, film, and post-production editing, Damari ensures that every project communicates with clarity and impact. His passion for media as a tool for connection drives his work across education, culture, and community storytelling.

the Director of Research and Impact at Kingmakers of Oakland, where he leads the design and evaluation of strategies that measure and strengthen the organization’s effectiveness across schools and communities. Bridging data, storytelling, and systems learning, Aman ensures that Kingmakers’ programs advance the well-being and success of Black boys and men. He partners with educators and community leaders to align practice with evidence and foster continuous improvement grounded in accountability and community voice.

the Director of Digital Media and Strategic Growth at Kingmakers of Oakland, where he leads digital marketing, media, and sales initiatives. A former Pixar animation producer, Theo brings his passion for storytelling to design programs that train and uplift the next generation of Black creatives. Through projects like Roots & Renaissanceand Read Like a King, he blends animation, documentary, and culture-driven narratives to center joy, identity, and liberation in every story he tells.

the Director of The Fellowship Initiative (TFI) at Kingmakers of Oakland, where he leads a college access program supporting Black and Latino high school males in their academic, personal, and professional growth. An Oakland educator and advocate, Kahlil holds a B.A. in Anthropology from Sacramento State and has represented youth voices at national platforms like the White House Youth Summit. He also empowers young people creatively through initiatives such as the Kingmakers Music project.

the Graphic Designer for Kingmakers of Oakland, where he uses design to celebrate culture, amplify youth voices, and drive social impact. A multidisciplinary artist and educator, Obasi holds an MFA in Design from the School of Visual Arts and a B.S. in Apparel Design from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. His work bridges storytelling and strategy, drawing from his experience leading creative education programs and community-centered design initiatives across Oakland.

the KOO Labs Community Programs Manager for Kingmakers of Oakland, dedicated to building spaces where creativity, leadership, and community thrive. A lifelong advocate for community development, Adrian has spent over three decades mentoring others and organizing initiatives that uplift underserved neighborhoods. As an entrepreneur and connector, he brings thought leaders together to design programs and summits that inspire transformation and empower those seeking direction and purpose.

a TFI Instructor with Kingmakers of Oakland, where he teaches math and mentors Black and Brown boys through the Fellowship Initiative. A dedicated educator, he began his journey with KOO at CCPA in Oakland, supporting young men in their academic and personal growth. Tyjun holds a B.A. and M.A. in English from CSU East Bay, along with multiple A.A. and A.S. degrees in History and Math, reflecting his passion for lifelong learning and empowerment.

the Clinical Youth Leader for Kingmakers of Oakland’s TFI program, where she provides resources, social-emotional counseling, and healing-centered support to strengthen connection and growth. With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and public education sectors, Stacy is deeply committed to advancing the mental health and wellness of Black and Brown youth. She holds a B.S. in Sociology from San Jose State University, an M.S.W. from the University of Massachusetts, and serves as an Associate Clinical Social Worker for OUSD.

a TFI Instructor with Kingmakers of Oakland and an equity-driven educator with over 20 years of experience across public, private, and charter schools. As an English teacher, she centers stories from historically marginalized voices, using literature to amplify and celebrate diverse experiences. Tracey holds a B.A. in English from the University of Central Florida and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Lesley University.

the TFI Co-Facilitator for Kingmakers of Oakland, as well as an educator, artist, and A&R for Kingmakers Music. Through his dual passions for music and mentorship, he empowers young men to pursue higher education and self-discovery. Alonzo centers his work in truth, creativity, and community—embodying KOO’s core values of love and liberation. He views Kingmakers’ mission as legacy work that forges pathways toward collective freedom and lasting impact.

the TFI Academic Advisor for Kingmakers of Oakland, where he supports young Black and Brown men in achieving their academic and personal goals. A first-generation college graduate, Wentrelle understands the transformative power of guidance and representation. Since 2015, he has served as a dedicated school counselor, helping students move from uncertainty to action. Wentrelle holds degrees from CSU San Bernardino and the University of Redlands and is deeply committed to empowering first-generation scholars.

the Facilities Director at Kingmakers of Oakland and a proud graduate of the UC Berkeley School of Architecture. He oversees daily operations and space management for KOO’s 8,000-square-foot facility, supporting staff, after-school programs, and The Fellowship Initiative. With over 15 years of experience in capital planning and design—including as Director of Capital and Planning for the City of San Francisco—Toks now leads KOO’s upcoming capital improvement project launching in 2025.

the TFI Translator for Kingmakers of Oakland and a fifth-generation East Oakland resident dedicated to education and community stewardship. A UC Berkeley graduate, he uses his bilingual English-Spanish skills to bridge communication and strengthen connections within the Fellowship Initiative. Passionate about nature and restoration, Robert spends his time outside of KOO tending to the land—restoring streams, planting gardens, and lighting prescribed fires to nurture ecological balance.

a Curriculum Designer for Kingmakers of Oakland and a multidisciplinary artist born and raised in Oakland. A graduate of Spelman College, she specializes in English Language Arts, creative writing, Black history, social-emotional learning, and the origins of Black American music. Nia has developed culturally empowering curricula and evaluation tools for organizations including Youth Speaks, SFJAZZ, Global Citizen Year, Flourish Agenda, and the National CARES Mentoring Movement.

the Fashion Lab Program Manager for Kingmakers of Oakland and the founder of Futurisme Studios, a multidisciplinary creative studio he established in 2015. A West Oakland native, Senay’s work centers intergenerational healing through art, design, and deep community engagement. Through mediums such as fashion, photography, film, electronic music, and exhibition, he creates immersive experiences that empower communities, celebrate identity, and inspire collective transformation.

the Communications and Marketing Specialist at Kingmakers of Oakland, where she combines storytelling and strategy to strengthen community connection. A graduate of Saint Mary’s College of California with a degree in Communications and an emphasis in Advertising, Leah is committed to uplifting narratives rooted in authenticity and collaboration. She believes meaningful engagement and partnership are essential to healing, empowering, and uniting communities.

the Head Engineer and Studio Manager for Kingmakers of Oakland, bringing over two decades of experience in music production and engineering. A Grammy Award–winning recording engineer and vocal producer for Alphabet Rockers’ The Movement (2023), Kevin has worked with artists including Blackalicious, Pep Love, Ledisi, and Malik Yusef. His expertise spans hip-hop, R&B, pop, and experimental music, blending technical mastery with creative vision to craft powerful, authentic soundscapes.

a TFI Teaching Assistant with Kingmakers of Oakland, where he supports and mentors young Kings through education, brotherhood, and leadership development. A longtime participant in Kingmakers’ programs, Fiyah understands the power of meeting young men where they are and guiding them toward their goals. His work embodies the mission of uplifting the next generation by leading with empathy, example, and a deep commitment to community growth.

a TFI Teaching Assistant with Kingmakers of Oakland, where he mentors, tutors, and supports high school students on their academic and personal journeys. A proud member of Cohort 1, Brian returned to KOO after graduation to give back the same guidance and encouragement that shaped his own growth. Now a student at CSU East Bay, he is committed to uplifting young men, building confidence and discipline, and helping the next generation realize their full potential.

a Jegna Early Literacy Ambassador for Kingmakers of Oakland, providing in-classroom support focused on reading, writing, and literacy development. A senior at San Francisco State University majoring in Child and Adolescent Development, Jordon is preparing to become an elementary school teacher. He works with students at MLK Elementary in West Oakland and East Oakland Pride Elementary, supporting early learners and fostering a love for literacy and learning.

a Jegna Early Literacy Ambassador with Kingmakers of Oakland and an aspiring educator committed to empowering youth. Passionate about mentorship, James believes young people are the future and draws inspiration from their resilience, creativity, and potential. His work with students motivates him to continuously grow, lead with purpose, and pursue excellence as he works toward becoming a teacher and uplifting the next generation.

Founder and CEO of Kingmakers of Oakland, is a visionary educator dedicated to Black boys’ brilliance. He launched OUSD’s AAMA, earned national recognition for his leadership, and has spent his career building pathways for youth across Oakland and the Bay. A former principal, YMCA leader, and teacher, Chris brings decades of community-rooted experience and a lifelong commitment to liberation.

Co-Chair of the Board, Rickey Jackson, is an Oakland native and proud Oakland Tech alum. Rickey is currently pursuing a Business Administration degree at CSU East Bay, focused on finance and accounting. He volunteers with organizations like AAMA and 100 Black Men, giving back to the village that raised him. He currently serves as an Assistant Manager at Men’s Wearhouse and is preparing for a finance career through a treasury internship.

Co-Chair of the Board, Dr. Johns is a nationally respected educator, policy leader, and advocate for Black LGBTQ+/SGL communities. He leads the National Black Justice Coalition and previously served as the first executive director of President Obama’s White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans. A former teacher and seasoned Capitol Hill advisor, Dr. Johns is widely recognized for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to our collective liberation.

Board Member for Kingmakers of Oakland, Darlene Flynn is a seasoned public servant and racial equity leader. In Seattle, she helped build the Race & Social Justice Initiative and served on the Seattle School Board. She later brought her policy and equity expertise to Oakland, where she now directs the Department of Race and Equity, advancing the city’s work to dismantle institutional racism and build a more just future.

Board Member, Dr. Gisele C. Shorter, is President and CEO of the Nellie Mae Education Foundation, leading community-rooted work to advance racial equity in public education. With 15+ years shaping programs, policy, and research for Black and Brown youth, she previously led national education strategy at the Raikes Foundation. Dr. Shorter is also a Senior Fellow at NYU and a Pahara Aspen Fellow, committed to building an equitable education system for all.

Board Member, Eliza Greenberg, is Co-President of New Profit and a seasoned leader in systems change, equity, and social impact. She oversees key organizational functions, partnerships, and strategy, and has supported numerous national grantees. Before New Profit, Eliza held senior roles in Boston city government and began her career counseling youth navigating broken systems. She is a graduate of Hamilton College and Harvard’s Kennedy School.

Board Member, Dr. Joaquín Noguera is a scholar, educator, and former social worker whose work centers racial equity, healing, and systems transformation. With a Ph.D. from UCLA, he has taught in Black Studies, led youth programs in NYC, and coached schools nationwide. His research explores how race, culture, and power shape education and how communities—especially Black, Latinx, and Indigenous—can build liberatory, holistic learning spaces.

Board Member, Romero Wesson, is the Founding Managing Partner of Evolve Consulting Group, a social innovation firm building solutions that uplift community. An Oakland native and Castlemont alum, Romero’s leadership began in AAMA’s Student Leadership Council and has grown into youth advocacy, systems-change work, and consulting that strengthens communities and drives lasting impact.

Board Member, Tsadiku Obolu,is a technologist, educator, and lifelong advocate for student success. An Oakland-raised leader, he launched equity-focused programs in high school and at UC Berkeley, expanding opportunities for Black students. Now an Associate Product Manager at Google, he also co-founded The Obolu Blueprint, an initiative teaching youth to “hustle school” and navigate systems for economic mobility and liberation.