October NEWSLETTER | A MESSAGE FROM CHRIS CHATMON

“Our youth will be our fate or our future.”
“Expand your mind. Seek and you shall find.”

Dear Kingmakers Family,

As we move through the fall season, a time of transition and reflection, I want to begin by reminding each of us of a simple, powerful call to action: check in with the young people in your life. Not just a “How are you?” in passing, but a deep and intentional moment of presence.

Ask them:

“What does it feel like being you today?”
“What’s something you’ve been learning about yourself lately?”
“What are you learning that excites you?”
“What’s a small moment from the past week that you’re grateful for?”
“Where are you finding your peace?”
“What are you doing to support your creative and imaginative self?”

Our young people are carrying so much in their hearts, and they need our attention, our affirmation, and our love—now more than ever. This work is urgent. It starts with us showing up fully.

And as we show up for our young people, we must also show up for ourselves. Please take a moment this month to care for your own spirit, mind, and body. We can’t pour into others if our own cup is empty. Your well-being is essential to the healing and liberation of our communities.

✊🏾 Spotlight: Kings Leading the Way
We are so proud to shine a light on two of our Jegna Early Literacy Ambassadors, Bro. Jordon and Bro. James, who are supporting early literacy at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary and East Oakland Pride Elementary while also pursuing their own journeys to become elementary school teachers. Their commitment to education, community, and legacy is a beautiful example of what it means to lead with purpose and heart. Deep appreciation to the Oakland Promise and Golden State Community Foundation for their support and investment.

🎓 The Fellowship Initiative: Class of 2025 On the Rise
Our TFI (The Fellowship Initiative) team is doing phenomenal work with a cohort of 32 high school seniors who are on track to graduate and matriculate into two- and four-year colleges. These Kings are not only preparing for the next chapter of their lives, they’re stepping into their power, vision, and voice. We see you. We celebrate you. And we got you. Special shout-out to JP Morgan Chase, who provides mentors and resources to ensure a best-in-class education and experience for all of our young Kings and their families.

🎨 Creativity in Action: KOO Labs Academies
Our KOO Labs instructors are holding it down at our Design Center and Production House, where Kings are exploring animation, film, fashion, and music. These aren’t just classes; they’re spaces of innovation, self-expression, and skill-building that prepare our youth for careers in the creative industries. Big love to our teaching artists for cultivating the genius in every young person who walks through our doors.

🏫 School Services Team: From Oakland to Seattle to Lancaster
Salute to our School Services Team, led by Bro. Matin, Sis. Nia, and Bro. Aman, who are doing transformative work with staff across OUSD, SFUSD, Seattle Public Schools, and Lancaster School District. Their consistent support is helping our Kings stay grounded, inspired, and connected to their goals. Special shout-out to Sis. Dr. Mia Williams, Leticia Irving, and Dr. Grace Carroll, who are extraordinary leaders in service of our young people and staff.

🙌🏾 Deep Gratitude
To our foundations, corporate partners, staff, youth, families, and community members—thank you. Your support fuels our mission and ensures that our Kings graduate college, career, and community ready.

This work is not just about education. It’s about liberation. It’s about healing. It’s about love.

Let’s keep going. Together.

With grace, clarity, urgency, and love,
Bro. Chris