Official Site | Youth Leadership and Mentoring Academies

Join our Youth Leadership and Mentoring Academies

YLMA - Your connection to Leadership and Mentoring Opportunities throughout Chapters of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Dr. Jehoshaphat K. Jones

Youth Leadership and Mentoring Academies

Mission

The mission of the Youth Leadership and Mentoring Academies is to develop principled, prepared, and purpose-driven young men through structured mentorship, academic support, and leadership training. Grounded in the Cardinal Principles of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.—Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift—the Academies aim to equip youth with the skills, mindset, and values needed to become successful scholars, responsible citizens, and future leaders in their communities.

Vision

The vision of the Youth Leadership and Mentoring Academies is to establish a sustainable, district-wide network of school-based leadership hubs that cultivate excellence, character, and service among young men. The Academies aspire to become a national model for youth empowerment, with graduates who are college-bound, career-ready, and civically engaged, each contributing to the advancement and uplift of their communities.

Core Values

The Academies are built upon the values of Excellence, Empowerment, Consistency, and Service. Excellence sets the standard for academic, social, and personal achievement. Empowerment reflects our commitment to helping youth discover their voice and potential. Consistency ensures reliability in mentor engagement and program delivery. Service reinforces our dedication to giving back and leading with purpose. These values are woven into every aspect of the Academy experience.

Program Responsibilities

The Youth Leadership and Mentoring Academies are responsible for maintaining high-quality, school-based programming that includes one-on-one mentorship, monthly workshops, cultural enrichment, and service-learning opportunities. The Academies also ensure that each student receives personalized academic guidance, character development training, and exposure to positive role models. Key responsibilities include recruiting and training mentors, engaging families, partnering with schools, and evaluating outcomes to ensure accountability and impact.

Commitment to Community Transformation

The Youth Leadership and Mentoring Academies represent a transformative investment in the future of our communities. By nurturing the next generation of leaders through intentional programming and mentorship, the Academies aim to dismantle barriers to success and inspire hope. The long-term goal is to create a legacy of leadership and service that reverberates through schools, neighborhoods, and generations—proving that when young men are given the tools to lead, they change the world.