Kingmakers of Oakland

Chris Chatmon, Founder and CEO

Education

KIngmakers of Oakland Black Love is Liberation

Kingmakers of Oakland reimagines systems of education, culture, and wellness while driving narrative change that celebrates Black people and culture and improving educational and life outcomes for Black boys from Pre-K to PhD.

Year Founded: 2018

THE HOWKingmakers is revolutionizing perceptions of self, family, community, and possibilities amongst Kings and adults by:

  • Empowering them with knowledge of their African heritage and igniting their ancestral intelligence to enhance cultural and racial identity
  • Cultivating intergenerational teaching, learning and community support to nurture collective responsibility
  • Imparting essential leadership skills to foster self-efficacy
  • Providing safe spaces for healing and belonging
  • Producing inclusive media that acknowledges and celebrates our cultural prosperity and racial identities

TO WHAT END:  To dismantle the toxic ecosystem sculpted by white dominant and individualistic culture hindering the prosperity of our Kings and adults, our aim is to forge a network of successful Kings who will lead not only the present but also future generations. 

Kingmakers uses the metaphor, “Healing the Fish, While treating the toxic ecosystem,” to highlight our comprehensive strategy for systemic change while providing immediate support to Black boys through our programming. Our work spans four program areas: School Services, KOO Labs, Camp, and Events. School Services create safe, supportive, and equitable learning environments where Black boys can see themselves in the curriculum and the people who teach them. KOO Labs Design Center and Production House generate economic benefits for Oakland, support Kings in developing professional skills in music, media, and fashion, and create content that drives narrative change. Additionally, KOO Camp teaches holistic wellness and leadership skills, while our events celebrate Black joy, facilitate intergenerational learning, and embody community-centered values. We also aim to expand KOO services internationally and offer global travel opportunities to foster a connection to the African Diaspora.

Chris Chatmon

Founder and CEO

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