Jacoby Waters
Founder, CEO & Executive Director of Young Men of Distinction & Gentlemen of Distinction.
What is the best way to achieve a dream or a goal? Learn from someone that achieved the same goal or dream, or someone that has more knowledge or expertise in that area than you do.
His stepfather and grandfather have provided him with knowledge and expertise creating a strong foundation in his life. He also received great guidance from neighbors – helping to develop his morals and values. With a strong foundation and great guidance, he achieved several goals and he is continuing his journey toward his dream.
His humility and gratitude provided the inspiration to create Young Men of Distinction with the help of several key collaborators to achieve one goal – provide tools and resources for young men to achieve their goals and dreams.
Currently, Young Men of Distinction will be at Dr. Mary McCleod Bethune Elementary School, Belle Glade Elementary School, Howell L. Watkins Middle School, Forest Hill High School and returning back to John I. Leonard High School.
Our Vision - Our vision is to cultivate a mentoring culture where all members of the community, regardless of gender, background, or identity, are empowered to thrive. We aim to support individuals in becoming compassionate leaders, nurturing caregivers, engaged community members, lifelong learners, and successful contributors in all aspects of life.
Mission Statement - Our mission is to empower adolescents from all backgrounds to thrive by providing mentorship, motivation, and guidance. We aim to support their development into purposeful young adults, equipping them with the tools to pursue higher education and achieve their fullest potential.
Board of Directors
Board President
Michael Stoddard Jr.
Michael is the president of the board of directors of Young Men of Distinction and a member of the Finance and Philanthropic committee. With over 25 years of experience in Financial Services technology leadership roles in both for-profit and non-profit corporations, Michael has driven organizational change and transformation, and he brings those skills to the Young Men of Distinction organization. Michael has a history of guiding diverse teams through periods of growth, while adapting to changing needs of organizations, and he leverages this experience to help move Young Men of Distinction towards their goals which include increasing the organization's reach in the community. Michael holds a bachelor's degree from Yale University, and is committed to developing the next generation of young people into leaders. He volunteers time with various organizations that focus on sharing learning experiences and creating opportunities for young people. Michael lives in south Florida and enjoys outdoor sports and activities and spending time with his family.
Board Member
Evan Baken
Board Member
Brian Ginsburg
Accomplished Attorney with expertise in negotiating, drafting and closing large volume of diverse commercial agreements at all levels of complexity. Strategic partner to Marketing, Sales, Business Development, Operations, Human Resources, Research, Information Technology and other internal clients. Proactive counsel who identifies and addresses potential litigation matters, minimizes external legal costs, and manages outside counsel to accomplish corporate objectives.
Board Member
Dr. Saro Ntagha
Saro Ntagha currently serves as Director of Business Operations at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, where he has established a strong track record over the past five years. His leadership experience also includes roles as Off-Shift Administrator at MD Anderson, Associate Director of Environmental Services, and Engineering Analyst Supervisor in external organizations. An accomplished scholar-practitioner, Saro holds a Doctor of Healthcare Administration from Virginia University of Lynchburg, an MBA from Texas Woman’s University, and a Bachelor of Science in Geology from Centenary College of Louisiana, where he excelled as a student-athlete in basketball. Beyond his professional career, Saro is deeply committed to family, travel, and service. He enjoys spending time with his daughter, Kaisley, exploring the world, and giving back to the community through his involvement with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Board Member
Carlos Perez
Staff Members
SONIA GILBERT
Staff
Executive Director
SOLOMON FLEMING
Staff
Junior Staff
TYRELL WARRING
Staff
Junior Staff
Our Volunteers
VOLUNTEER WITH YMOD
OUR STRENGTH - We are as strong as our results, and most of which come directly from our volunteers. We value their hard work and efforts that continue to make a difference in what we can do. Contact us to find out more information.