Usalama Foundation began with a shared vision between co-founders Lionel Jacobs and Gevonte Gwin, two men whose lived experiences led them to have difficult conversations about the condition of their communities, the responsibilities of men, and what younger generations were being shown about manhood, leadership, conflict, and opportunity.

​

Both men understood firsthand how choices, environment, violence, and incarceration can alter the course of a life. But their conversations were not centered only on what had gone wrong. They were increasingly focused on what men could do differently and what responsibility they had to help create something different for those coming behind them.

​

Lionel and Gevonte shared a concern that too many Black men were not fully embracing their responsibility to strengthen themselves, support one another, lead within their communities, and intentionally pour into younger generations. They also recognized that telling young people what not to do would never be enough. Young people need something meaningful to move toward: education, mentorship, positive activities, employment and career opportunities, guidance, leadership, and people willing to consistently show up for them.

​

From those conversations, the vision for Usalama began to take shape.

​

Usalama was envisioned as a space where men could come together across differences, hold one another accountable, grow as leaders, resolve conflict through communication and diplomacy, and turn brotherhood into service. At the same time, that growth would extend beyond the men themselves creating greater opportunities to mentor youth, support education, prevent violence, serve communities, and help younger generations envision a different path.

​

Usalama Foundation grew from a shared belief that our experiences do not have to determine what comes next. They can become part of the knowledge, responsibility, and purpose we use to help build what comes next.