(LANDOVER, MD – October 10) The 13th Man Leadership Academy proudly introduces its highly anticipated second cohort of talented young men for the 2024 class. After a thorough selection process, we have handpicked a diverse group of promising individuals who exhibit exceptional leadership potential and a deep commitment to making a positive impact within their communities.
Our academy, a comprehensive 9-month professional development preparatory program, is dedicated to cultivating personal, professional, and leadership skills in young men. Rooted in the core values of mentorship, education, and community engagement, the 13th Man Leadership Academy is passionately devoted to shaping the future generation of leaders.
Davon Kelly, the visionary Founder of The 13th Man organization, expressed his immense pride, stating, “We are filled with excitement as we embrace these remarkable young men into our 13th Man family. Their commitment to leadership and community service is genuinely inspiring. With the steadfast guidance and support from our mentors, I am certain they will thrive in our program and accomplish extraordinary milestones.”
The distinguished Class of 2024 consists of young men aged 13-18 hailing from Prince George’s County, all showcasing a passionate dedication to education and personal development:
- Alexander James – Bowie High School
- Bryce Pringle – Henry Wise High School
- Carson Edwards – The Field School
- Dacharvrick Collins – Westlake High School
- Darnell Gilliam – Parkdale High School
- Eli Williams – DC International School
- Ethan Amatie – St Anselm’s Abbey School
- Hudson Flowers – Wild Lake High School
- Jaden Lee – Frederick Douglass High School
- Jayden Hernandez – Our Lady of Good Counsel HS
- Jeffrey James – DeMatha Catholic High School
- Mason Brown – Wilde Lake High School
- Micah Smith – Eagle Oaks Preparatory Homeschool
- Myles Brown – Wilde Lake High School
The program’s curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including Leadership Attributes, Presence and Presentation, Receiving Feedback, Interviewing, Managing Your Career, True Colors Assessment, Goal Setting and Resilience, Emotional Intelligence, Dress for Success, Finances 101, Service Mentality, Social Entrepreneurship, Resume Preparation, and Courage and Risk-Taking.
In addition to the transformative learning experiences offered by the academy, each student that matriculates will receive a paid corporate summer internship. This invaluable opportunity is designed to provide our young leaders with hands-on experience in the professional world, equipping them with practical skills and insights that will be instrumental in their future careers.
Kim Arrindell, Program Director, stressed the significants of the corporate internship, stating, “We believe that providing our students with paid corporate summer internships is a pivotal part of their educational journey. It not only prepares them for the challenges of the professional world but also instills confidence and fosters a sense of accomplishment. We are committed to empowering these young leaders and ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed.”
In addition to the new Class of 2024, the Academy is delighted to welcome back several esteemed graduates from the inaugural class for an intensive study of advanced leadership concepts, further building on the foundation they established during their previous participation. The students returning to the program include:
- Ayeme “Kenny” Owona – Charles H. Flowers High School
- Charles Samuel Jr. – Frederick Douglass High School
- Dorien Williamson – North Point High School
- Kimani Lawson – Howard High School
- Sincere Allen – Crofton High School
This inclusive environment not only strengthens our 13th Man family bonds but also ensures that each participant benefits from a mosaic of knowledge, mentorship, and shared aspirations. We are deeply committed to nurturing their talents, guiding them toward personal and professional growth, and empowering them to achieve remarkable feats.
Visit our website at www.the13thmla.org
ABOUT THE 13TH MAN ORGANIZATION
The 13th Man, is a non-profit leadership development organization that empowers and transforms young men, ages 12-17, into the next generation of change makers. We offer year-round tutoring, mentoring, leadership development and enrichment engagements that are designed to lay the foundation for participants to achieve academic success and become well-rounded, active, and impactful leaders of their communities today and beyond. The 13th Man is headquartered in Prince George’s County, Maryland, with a chapter in Charlotte, North Carolina. We are a registered 501c3 organization.
