Learning from the Past
As I journeyed through my career in education, I sought guidance from those who came before me, looking to understand what kind of legacy I could leave for future generations. In doing so, I encountered the transformative work of Ronald Walker, founder and executive director of the Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color.
His commitment to supporting young Black boys through culturally responsive education inspired me profoundly, particularly in a webinar titled Pitfalls to Pivots: Transforming Education for Young People of Color. Walker spoke about the power of cultural understanding and the urgent need for Black boys to truly know who they are to unlock their full potential.
My interest in Walker’s perspective led me to an article of his titled Legacy Matters: What Are You Passing on to Black Boys? In it, he recounts how his mother would read Langston Hughes’s poem Mother to Son, instilling resilience in him and teaching him to persevere through life’s challenges. He carried this “baton” throughout his life—a legacy that strengthened his sense of self. As he grew, he was surrounded by a community that saw and nurtured his potential. This reminder of legacy resonated deeply with me, affirming my belief that every young person deserves to inherit values, wisdom, and purpose.
The Importance of Legacy
As I read Walker’s words, I was reminded of a quote from Malidome Somé: “Where rituals are absent, young men are restless or violent; there are no real elders, and grownups are bewildered.” Without a legacy that grounds them, many young people drift, lacking a foundation of identity or belonging. If today’s youth are not taught the importance of heritage—legacies of resilience, ethics, community, health, and well-being—they may continue to struggle, disconnected from the richness of their own ancestry.
A Legacy of Wellness
The legacy I hope to pass on to the youth encompasses holistic wellness, cultural identity, community empowerment, and self-awareness. I believe that if young people understand the importance of wellness, they will realize that caring for their minds and bodies is essential for living a balanced life. Physical wellness is widely acknowledged, with many of us going to the gym, hiring personal trainers, and taking supplements to maintain health. But what about mental health? How can we train our minds to address and heal generational trauma, to face anxiety and depression, and to be open to seeking professional help when needed? How can we create safe spaces for young Black boys to express emotions without judgment?
Cultural Identity as a Foundation
Understanding culture is pivotal to shaping one’s identity. Culture influences how we dress, eat, connect with others, and communicate. Due to historical traumas like the transatlantic slave trade, many Black youth have lost touch with aspects of their cultural heritage. While cultural expression exists today, we must ask ourselves: Is our culture truly healing-centered? Does it uplift values of honor, respect, and unity, or does it instead glorify gangs, violence, and self-destructive behaviors? To heal and grow, our cultural legacy must be revitalized, offering young people a meaningful path forward.
I often refer to these young leaders as “light workers”—those who embody a transformative spirit, bringing positive change to our community. These young people, though often overshadowed by negative stereotypes, are a powerful force for progress. While some may find themselves caught in challenging environments, many are searching for purpose and direction. It is these young people who hold the potential to uplift future generations and create a better world.
Empowering Through Community
Community empowerment is a cornerstone of the legacy I want to impart. When young people understand that individual and collective growth are interconnected, they can come together to support one another. An African proverb resonates with this principle: “If you want to travel fast, go alone; if you want to travel far, go together.” This speaks to the power of unity. Embracing differences with respect and compassion enables us to achieve more collectively than individually.
The Power of Self-Knowledge
Finally, the most profound wisdom I can pass on is to “know thyself.” This ancient principle became my guiding light after college, a period when I felt lost and uncertain. Although I’d excelled as a college basketball player and enjoyed many opportunities, something essential was missing. I didn’t truly know myself—I didn’t understand the roots of my thoughts, emotions, or why I was so easily influenced by peers and society.
My journey toward self-knowledge led me to study under elders, engage in self-reflection, and explore works by thinkers like Malcolm X, Anthony Browder, and Bruce Lee. Practices like Wing Chun Kung Fu, Kemetic Yoga, and mindful meditation deepened my understanding. Through this journey, I discovered the life-altering power of self-awareness. Knowing oneself is a gift, a type of internal strength that enables a person to navigate life with clarity and purpose.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Meaning and Belonging
Our youth deserve to inherit a legacy rich with meaning, resilience, and love—a baton they can carry forward with pride and purpose. I am committed to being part of that legacy and invite others to join me in nurturing and empowering the next generation to build a future rooted in wellness, identity, and a profound sense of belonging.
