Maia Chaka (Founder Chairman of the Board) is a multi-faceted, goal-oriented individual with a passion for breaking glass ceilings and being an example for youth worldwide. Originally from Rochester, New York, Chaka grew up with a family first mentality, carrying that with her through her schooling and career. Immediately following her graduation from Norfolk State University, Chaka began her profession in education, focusing on at-risk youth, developing programs and implementing procedures to increase school attendance and retention rates.

In March 2021, Chaka made history as the 1st black woman to join the on field officiating staff in the National Football League. As only the 2nd woman to join the on field officiating staff, Chaka continues to be an agent for change by devoting her time to pouring into the communities that helped nurture her.

Lorenzo High is a native of Virginia Beach, VA and a graduate from Norfolk State University where he played football. After receiving his degree in mass communications and journalism, Lorenzo received his certification in Special Education from Old Dominion University. Since then he has spent his entire career teaching at-risk youth. As a behavior modification specialist, Mr. High is committed to bringing the best out of the youth regardless of their circumstances. His sevrenatship has earned him many accolades and awards including Teacher of the Year.

Rachel is an advocate for educational equity with the belief that education can start to break the cycle of generational poverty. As a former classroom teacher and school leader, she has worked with students at the

middle school level with successful social and academic outcomes. In addition to her work in classrooms, she understands that children are also largely impacted by their communities and lived experiences. To combat this, she facilitates DEI conversations in the academic and corporate setting to mitigate the effects of workplace trauma that often follow parents back into their homes.This includes topics such as microaggressions, race and gender discrimination, inclusive interviewing and hiring practices, and eliminating performative allyship. Rachel has a master’s degree in Lifespan & Digital Communication from Old Dominion University and a secondary concentration in

Women’s Studies. She is passionate about women’s representation in sports and athletic spaces, working to address the intersections of gender, perception of athleticism, and acceptance. She works to dismantle the traditional ideas of what constitutes an athlete

to create welcoming health and wellness spaces for all bodies. As an amateur Muay Thai fighter, she competed in the Women’s Heavyweight Division and won titles from the WKKO United States Championship twice, the WKA American Nationals, and the IKF

International Competition. During a brief stint in powerlifting, she placed second in her weight class at 100% Raw World International Powerlifting Competition.

Danyelle Smith, a native of Portsmouth, VA is graduate of Virginia State University and Old Dominion University (Masters in SportsManagement). She currently serves as the Athletic Director for John Marshall High School in Richmond, VA. She is the first African-American woman to hold that position. Danyelle is also a NCAA Division I Women’s basketball official.  A firm believer in “hard work pays off,” Ms. Smith is passionate about mentoring youth to become multifaceted leaders.