.png)
I AM A KING
IN THE MAKING
HERE TO UPLIFT, INSPIRE & CELEBRATE BLACK BOYS
WELCOME
WELCOME
WELCOME!
who is
OUR KINGS
We are a proud 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering, inspiring, and motivating young men of color to rise confidently and reach their fullest potential.
At OUR KINGS, we believe every boy deserves a safe space where he is seen, celebrated, and equipped with the tools to thrive both personally and academically.
Through transformative mentorship, engaging workshops, interactive seminars, and dynamic online programs, we provide more than just support—we create a community where our kings build lasting brotherhood, develop critical leadership skills, and embrace their cultural identity with pride.
OUR KINGS is a beacon of hope and a powerful platform that uplifts families and strengthens communities. We are committed to nurturing a generation of bold, confident leaders who will shape the future with integrity, wisdom, and heart.
Join us on this journey—whether as a mentor, supporter, family member, or community partner—and help us elevate the voices and potential of our kings today and always.
WELCOME
OUR VISION
We envision a future where every Black boy grows up in a world that recognizes his brilliance, nurtures his gifts, and affirms his identity. At OUR KINGS, we are building a cultural movement—one that shifts the narrative surrounding Black boys by creating spaces where they are consistently uplifted, protected, and celebrated.
Our vision is to raise a generation of boys who not only know who they are but also stand boldly in their greatness, grounded in pride, purpose, and community. Through our work, we aim to strengthen the village around them—supporting families as active partners in their sons' development and creating a network of mentors, educators, and leaders who are invested in their long-term success.
We believe that by centering joy, culture, and connection, Black boys will not only thrive—they will transform the world around them.
OUR PURPOSE
OUR KINGS is all about creating a village for Black boys and the families raising them. From the very beginning of life through the teenage years, we walk alongside boys and their families with programs that celebrate culture, build confidence, and nurture leadership. Whether it’s storytelling and bonding with toddlers, brotherhood circles for teens, or family workshops that offer tools and support—everything we do is rooted in love, community, and pride in who they are. We make sure our young KINGS feel seen, valued, and prepared for the world—and we uplift their families with the same energy and care. OUR KINGS is more than a program—it’s a movement to raise a generation of Kind, Intelligent, Noble, Gifted Sons who know their worth and walk in their greatness.
HERE ARE THE BENEFITS
UPLIFT.
-
In mentorship-based programs, Black boys experience a 43% drop in dropout rates and graduation rates increase from 46% to 69% (Stanford University).
-
Black youth with consistent mentors report stronger emotional health, higher academic achievement, and better social skills
INSPIRE.
-
95% more likely to graduate high school
-
82% more likely to pursue higher education
-
66% more likely to feel a sense of belonging
CELEBRATE.
-
Positive recognition increases self-esteem and reinforces motivation.
-
Studies show that 92% of youth feel more confident when they have creative outlets and feel celebrated.
-
Celebrating Black boys disrupts harmful narratives and reminds them they are powerful, worthy, and destined for greatness.
WHY IT MATTERS
Black boys continue to face disproportionate challenges in school and society. That’s why OUR KINGS is committed to creating a village that surrounds them with love, opportunity, and pride. When we uplift, inspire, and celebrate our boys—we help build stronger futures for them, their families, and our communities.
WHAT WE DO
Uplift.
At OUR KINGS, we uplift Black boys by creating spaces where they are truly seen, heard, and celebrated for their unique identities. Through strong mentorship and brotherhood, we help build their confidence, leadership skills, and sense of belonging. We combine life skills training with cultural pride to prepare our boys to navigate the world with strength and purpose, deeply rooted in their history. Surrounded by a loving village of men, families, and community members who consistently show up, our kings grow empowered to step boldly into their futures.
Inspire.
Celebrate.
At OUR KINGS, inspiring Black boys means igniting their passion, dreams, and belief in what’s possible. We share stories of resilience, greatness, and cultural pride that motivate our kings to see themselves as leaders and changemakers. Through mentorship, creative expression, and community engagement, we fuel their drive to reach higher and push beyond limitations. By surrounding them with positive role models and opportunities to shine, we inspire our boys to embrace their purpose and step confidently into their power
At OUR KINGS, to celebrate Black boys is to honor their brilliance, growth, and unique journeys every step of the way. We create joyful spaces where their achievements—big and small—are recognized and uplifted with pride and love. Through events, ceremonies, and everyday moments, we affirm their worth and the beauty of their identity. Celebrating our kings reminds them that they are valued, powerful, and destined for greatness, inspiring them to continue shining bright in all they do.
OUR EXPERIENCES
A early childhood program designed to create joyful, culturally affirming spaces for Black boys in their preschool years. Through storytelling, music, art, and hands-on activities, our young kings begin to see themselves reflected, celebrated, and valued from the very start.
At the heart of this program is the understanding that mothers and women caregivers need support too. Mommy & KING offers a welcoming village where moms can connect, share, and grow. New and experienced mothers alike are encouraged to ask questions, receive honest answers, and gain tools to support them as they raise strong, confident sons. Learn more
A dynamic mentorship and enrichment program for elementary and middle school Black boys. Through engaging workshops, cultural lessons, life skill activities, and peer bonding, young KINGS begin building confidence, discipline, and a strong sense of identity at an early age.
The program creates a safe and joyful space where boys connect with positive male mentors and each other. They explore who they are, where they come from, and how to carry themselves as future leaders. KINGS Keepers helps plant the seeds of pride, purpose, and brotherhood early—so our boys grow with a foundation that lasts. Learn more
A powerful mentorship and leadership program for high school Black boys, designed to guide them through the transition into adulthood. Through hands-on workshops, life skills training, and cultural exploration, young KINGS gain the confidence and tools they need for college, careers, and life beyond the classroom.
Each KING is paired with a dedicated male mentor—a “big brother”—who walks alongside him throughout the journey. Together, they explore topics like financial literacy, mental wellness, professionalism, and identity. KINGS to KINGS is more than a program—it’s a rite of passage into manhood, surrounded by support, pride, and purpose. Learn more
Brunch 2023
Hats & Bow Ties is OUR KINGS’ signature annual celebration honoring the brilliance, resilience, and achievements of Black boys. Rooted in the rich Southern tradition of dressing in their finest “Sunday Best,” our boys come together in style and dignity, embodying pride and respect for their heritage. This elegant and joy-filled event is more than just a celebration—it’s a powerful affirmation that Black Boy Joy exists and thrives.
The gathering centers on love, legacy, and community, with uplifting awards, inspiring performances, and heartfelt speeches that honor each boy’s journey and growth. At its heart, Hats & Bow Ties embraces the timeless Black cultural tradition of breaking bread together—a communal brunch where families, mentors, and supporters connect, share stories, and celebrate unity. This shared meal symbolizes nourishment not just of the body, but of spirit and community bonds.
More than a ceremony, Hats & Bow Ties is a rite of passage where we proudly celebrate our Kind, Intelligent, Noble, Gifted Sons, reminding them and all who witness that they are deeply seen, cherished, and destined for greatness
OUR EXPERIENCES
OUR KINGS is a vital organization for San Diego. The Black community here is close-knit and positive role models are crucial for empowering our young men. OUR KINGS provides precisely that- a supportive environment where young Black men can thrive. It's a much-needed resource in or city.
Sedrick Lee
