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This digital archive lifts up the voices of those who’ve seen the impact of Kingmakers of Oakland firsthand educators, students, parents, and staff working to transform systems and uplift Black boys.
Each story is part of a growing movement rooted in truth, purpose, and love.
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       Kahlil ChatmonStaff "The impact on youth is huge when they are invested in and believe themselves to be learners, leaders, and legacy builders." 
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       Ginale HarrisParent "Since joining KOO, I’ve seen Carmelo walk with more confidence, speak with more purpose, and lean into…” 
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       Tracy WilliamsEducator "They make every student feel seen, valued, and capable of creating something meaningful." 
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       Andrew BearfordEducator "It is one of those invaluable organizations because everyone can find a way that KOO can help out with whatever their…” 
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       Senay Alkebu-lanStaff "It's been important to me to eliminate as many barriers as possible between the youth of my community and ..." 
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       Donte NeilEducator "I've had lots of students who have told me this is their favorite class because they feel that they can be their true selves." 
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       Adrian HendersonStaff "Kingmakers of Oakland transforms lives daily through music, powerful programs, and strategic partnerships." 
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       Dr. David JohnsBoard Member "Supporting Kingmakers of Oakland isn't charity—it's investment in collective liberation. Your support proves..." 
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       Tracey MansfieldEducator "Over the past five years, it's been a joy to watch so many young men grow from reserved and apprehensive to…” 
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       Matin Abdel-QawiStaff "At Kingmakers, I see Black boys and their educators embrace their gifts, changing mindsets and shaping powerful futures." 
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       Damari LawrenceStaff "Kingmakers of Oakland helps students learn healthy modes of living while understanding and changing…” 
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       Sakima WilliamsParent "It was the academic support and sense of brotherhood in the TFI program that gave my son the confidence…” 
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       Alonzo HendersonStaff "Kingmakers has changed lives in real time for the better, and improved life and educational trajectories for…" 
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       Brenden AndersonStaff "Kingmakers has positively impacted youths' lives, providing them with skills, confidence, and…” 
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       Aman FalolStaff "Kingmakers of Oakland serves, learns, and leads with love and responsibility that uplifts Black boys." 
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       Avery Mason Jr.Educator "I chose to be part of Kingmakers of Oakland to help inspire and educate Black youth." 
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       Chris ChatmonStaff "Kingmakers was born out of a deep love for our community and a bold vision to transform the way institutions…” 
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       Theo HollingsworthStaff "I've seen students become stronger writers and more confident in themselves."   
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       Wentrelle McintoshEducator "KOO and The Fellowship Initiative has guided and, most importantly, empowered first generation young men of color…” 
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       Toks AjikeStaff "Through cultural identity, collective responsibility, love, self-efficacy, and belonging, we bring forth the best…” 
Got a Story of your own?
Help us grow the archive by sharing your experience.
 
                         
            
              
            
            
          
               
            
              
            
            
          
              