Youth Spotlight

Khalil Xavier Echols is 12 years old and lives in Hampton, GA. He loves playing with his XBox, traveling and spending time with family. Since joining DFG last year, it has given Khalil an opportunity to interact with positive role models. It also helps encourage him to engage with his peers and get out of his shell. Through the activities and mentorship Khalil is growing and maturing into the young man he is destined to become.

My name is Avery Fluker. I am 13-years-old, and live in Loganville Georgia. I’m from a small town called Decatur, IL. I like playing video games & I also love swimming. My mentor’s name is Charles Daniels IV. I believe DFG has helped me with many things such as my mental health and communicating better. DFG has helped lead me on the right path, to make better decisions. Since I was five years old my dream has been to own a car dealership. I feel like I am a loving soul and love giving back to people. I hope this biography sent a message to some people.

Tristan Alakai Smith was born on February 18, 2010. He has always been a "shy guy", but full of light around his family. Tristan has a one of a kind personality and can be very entertaining around family members. Tristan grew a liking to drawing at a young age and as he became older, he began having an interest towards gaming. Tristan has always been smart and is very knowledgeable even at a young age. If he wants to learn a skill or new traits, he knows how to search it on search engines. He loves to play video games and interact with his family/friends. Tristan has always displayed a love for video games and music. Tristan's favorite sport is basketball and he is great at shooting 3 point shots. Tristan has a great memory and can remember life events that took place as early as when he was 3 years old. His favorite food is chicken and fish and Tristan's favorite dish to cook is salmon. He enjoys fighting with his brother Zaire and considers him to be his best friend. Overall, Tristan is an amazing, hardworking teenager who is full of excitement.

Canaan Monroe attends Eagles Landing High School and is in the 9th grade. Currently an A student while taking mostly honors classes. GPA is 3.8. Passions include basketball, gaming, Psychology and entrepreneurship. I had struggles early on with my behavior. Fortunately, through behavior therapy, people believing me and believing in myself, I was able to overcome and be where I am today. I never give up on myself, my dreams or my goals, even if at first, they seem unreachable. My goal is to get a scholarship in academics or sports, attend a D1 college and someday play in the NBA.

My name is Ty’rell Jolly. I am 14 years old and I am in the 8th grade. I attend Tucker Middle School. I am currently holding a 3.9 GPA. My passion includes football, basketball, and track. I love to work out and spend time with my family. I am a proud member of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Dr. Jamal Bryant. My goal is to receive a full scholarship in football and major in sports. I went through a dark period in my life loosing my father due to gun violence at the age of 9 years old. With the help of God, my mother and grandmother kept me on the right track. I’m blessed that God gave me a bonus dad who treats me like his very own. I want young people to know you can make it through any obstacles that comes your way.

My name is Marctavious Williams. I am 14 years old. My favorite subjects are ELA and Science. My favorite sports are football, baseball, basketball, boxing, and track and field. My goal is to attend UCLA or Duke University with a full sports scholarship. I want to major in Biology with a minor in Business. I also want to hold all four titles in lightweight boxing and become Champion. “I am what time, circumstance, history, have made of me, certainly, but I am also, much more than that. So are we all.” – James Baldwin “The only justification forever looking down on somebody is to pick them up.” – Jesse Jackson "I have discovered in life that there are ways of getting almost anywhere you want to go, if you really want to go.” – Langston Hughes

Hillgrove High School Class of 2022. He was born at Crawford Long Hospital on May 6th, 2004. During his early years as a kid, he had many interests. One fun fact when he was six or seven playing T-ball and because he was learning during one of the games, he hit the ball to the outfield and ran to third base, and by the time he went back to the correct base, he was called out. That experience opened his eyes to the world of sports and that listening and hearing are to different things. From that day to now, he enjoys the competition of all sports and the education that sports can offer. His favorite sport is Basketball. During his formative years, he also developed a love for cars and rap music. One of his favorite cars is the Dodge Hellcat. His favorite food is seafood and his favorite color is Green. The teachers that have made the biggest impact on his journey thus far are Mrs. Rogers and Coach Bailey. After graduation, he would like to pursue a career in commercial/residential real estate and become a champion activist for his community

My name is Paris Giles. I am 10 years old and I love to learn. School has always been a joy for me and education is my number one priority. My hobbies include playing the guitar, martial arts, singing, and dancing. I also enjoy building things and creating amazing works from a blank slate. I love to help and serve. One of my long-term goals is to start an organization that helps feed homeless individuals and to start a dog daycare. Former First Lady, Michelle Obama is an individual I look up to. Not only was she the first black First Lady, but she also symbolizes strength, courage, and she’s a trailblazer for a little girl of color all over the world. In the words of Mrs. Obama: “ Don’t be afraid. Be focused. Be determined. Be hopeful. Be empowered.

This exceptional young man is 12 years old and attends Bearcreek Middle School. In his free time, he loves playing basketball, as well as watching it. This is what we call “for the love of the game”. Not only does he enjoy basketball, but Aaron is also interested in video games, reading, and enjoys engaging in intellectual conversations. This past year, Aaron was selected for the TAG (Talented and Gifted) program. Outside of his personal life, Aaron excels highly in the classroom, specifically in reading and math. Aaron wants to pursue business or real estate when he gets older. Dream big and continue to work hard but most importantly stay focused. Keep up the good work Aaron!

My name is Tymira Williams. I am 13 years old. I love school. My favorite subjects are reading, ELA and science. My hobbies are drawing and being an innovator. My favorite sports are gymnastics, volleyball, tennis, and track and field. My future aspiration is to attend Harvard University and major in medicine. I want to become a doctor because I have a passion for helping people. I want to open many non-profit clinics all over the USA so I can help people get the medical attention they need. You don't make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering, and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas.  -Shirley Chisholm-

Knieman Z.Clark is a recent graduate of Wadsworth Magnet School for High Achievers. While attending Wadsworth, he was in various activities such as the Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl and the Hydro Heroes robotics team. This A&B honor roll student has played baseball for Redan park for the last 8 years and is a dedicated member of St. Paul AME church where he serves on the young men's usher board. Knieman enjoys coding and decoding games. He has also been an active member of Destined for Greatness Outreach Youth Center Inc.’s mentor program for the last year.

Khai is a rising 5th grader at KIPP Soul Academy. He is excited about being in middle school at his new school but is a little nervous about leaving his old friends at Kindezi. He is most definitely a people person and it is easy for him to make new friends. His sharp people skills will surely help in getting acclimated to his new school.

Khai's favorite color is red and favorite team sport is football, so of course, he is an Atlanta Falcons fan. He has had the opportunity to play for the Westside Falcons for the past 2 seasons, an Atlanta youth football league sponsored by the NFL and the Arthur Blank Foundation

He enjoys playing video games and spending time with his family. From visiting with his big sister, Kyla who is in college, to playing outside and swimming with his younger cousins at his grandparent's house, to playing video and fun board games with his dad, going to plays, games, and volunteering in the community with his mom, and hanging out with his DFG Mentor, Mark, Khai keeps a pretty busy schedule for a 10-year-old.

He is most known for his quick-witted responses and keeping everyone around him on their toes with his debatable tactics. He is a very bright young man who aspires to have his own Tshirt design line and YouTube Cooking channel, following in the footsteps of both of his parents who work in these artistic industries.

He is no stranger to technology and can figure out how to work just about anything technological. He received 2 computer technology-based awards in school this past academic year. He has an interest in coding and in the future, he also would like to learn how to design and test video games before they hit the market.

Instagram: jumpshot_kid_101

Malvern Caban is a 13-year old model, actor, and designer. Malvern has two clothing collections, one shoe collection, and has been published in several magazines. Malvern is on Imdb for starring in three movies. Malvern has modeled in over 20 shows, walked for Dillards in North Carolina, and was awarded the 2018 ATL Hottest Rising Superstar.

Malvern enjoys being a part of Destined for Greatness Youth Organization and all of the events that give back to the Community.

Facebook: MAL-C DESIGNS
Instagram: malverncaban_realmodelactor
Imdb: Malvern Caban.

Since the age of 3, I have been in tune with my audience. I modeled for Houghton Talent and ended up doing a 2-page spread for Cartoon Network in 5 National Magazines. I continued my journey on the creative side and enjoyed art and singing with my twin brother. I loved to perform skits with him in front of our parents and family. One time, we were singing with our cousin and created our own band. As I got older, my appreciation for music deepened and I really began to have an interest in singing.

When entering the 6th grade, I auditioned for the M.D. Roberts Middle School Fine Arts Chorus program and was accepted! For 3 years, I was able to gain the vocal foundation I needed to become a better singer. By the time I was in 7th and 8th grades, I was invited to sing for the Spivey Treble Choir (only 2 people were selected for each grade level). I enjoyed meeting other students who had a serious interest in singing like me. I also attended District 6 Honor Choir and in 8th grade, I was chosen as Overall Top Performing for 8th grade chorus. While at MD. Roberts, I was a co-leader and member the swim team. This helped me strengthen my lungs so that I could hold my notes out longer. I enjoy singing traditional and classical music and would like to pursue this as a minor in college.

The privilege to travel and sing at Lincoln Center in New York would be such an honor. Dr. Pace always strives for excellence and has us work hard in everything that we do. This experience will help me to achieve my aspirations of becoming an African-American opera singer and hopefully play the role of “Christine” in Phantom of the Opera! I also desire to compete in the Olympics as a competitive swimmer and one day have my own swimsuit line.

I really believed that it was important to help our community, so I became a part of a great organization called Destined for Greatness. We have a youth board that helps make sure that we are bringing change to our community. With this board, I have a position that titles Girls Advisor. With this role, I make sure that I help young women or our young ladies to become and serve as great leaders within their communities. It makes me feel good to make change not only within my community, but also in the world. While being in this organization it provides me with leadership skills and allows me to reach my goals and aspirations in my life.

I will be graduating high school in 2020. My career plans are to attend Ludwig Maximilian University in Germany and major in International Studies with a minor in Voice/Opera. Afterwards, I would like to attend law school and travel the world as an International Attorney.

One day I plan to have a law firm of my own and perform opera singing. I would like to I believe that in life you should live it to the best of your ability. You should be yourself around others and not let anyone stop you from conquering your dreams. You should dream big!!! My favorite quote is “Whenever you do not understand what’s happening in your life, just close your eyes, take a deep breath and say: God I know it is your plan. Just help me through it.”

Hello, my name is Nicholas Harrison and I am 21 years old. First joined DFG about a year ago almost a year-and-a-half ago and since then I have become the youth board president. I am in the military and I also work at the Georgia Dome but through all of that I enjoy the time that I spend with the organization. I love the people and the support that has been given, and everyone that's involved really helps out in the best way that they can. Mr. Kyle has given me a great opportunity to be the use of our president and I just want to make sure that I do the best job that I possibly can because I understand that it is a very important role. Outside of DFG, I am a security officer at the Georgia Dome. I also enjoy reading working out and watching TV.

Nia Ross attends Kendrick Middle School and is currently in the 8th grade with a 3.7 GPA. Nia has the privilege of being the school announcer on WKMS Radio. In the fall of 2016, Nia will attend Lovejoy High School. However, her aspirations do not stop there, Nia has plans to matriculate and make positive history as a student at the University of Florida upon graduating high school. She will be a dual major in Criminology and Psychology.

When Nia is not busy making grades, she enjoys singing, dancing, traveling and SHOPPING!!! She is also a dedicated member of the Temple of Hope International Ministries of Atlanta. She serves on the Liturgical Dance Ministry and also as a youth praise and worship vocalist.

As Nia has been an active participant in Destined For Greatness, she has developed an unquenchable desire to help those less fortunate than her - particularly the homeless. One of her aspirations as she considers her viability and responsibility to the larger society is to be able to develop programs that will feed the hungry and aid the poor. She is determined to not only obtain greatness in her personal life but to help others on her way to greatness and beyond.

In addition to Nia’s admiration of her mother, Maria Fields, and her quest for the best, she has been inspired by Mr. Kyles and the DFG family to strive for excellence and shine through every situation she may face in life. Make no mistake about it, Ms. Nia D. Ross is DESTINED FOR GREATNESS!!!

My name is Kayla Jordan. I am 14 years old and a sophomore at Shiloh High School. I am an active member of Fresh Start church and a Senior in the Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta. My hobbies are photography and drawing among a gammon of other things. After graduating from high school, I plan to attend college and obtain a Bachelor of Fine Arts in photography.

As the first Youth Chairperson of Destined for Greatness, I am excited about leading the charge. DFG has become a staple in my life, and I am excited to make a difference both in my life and in the lives of youth for many years to come. I met Mr. Kyles last year while visiting my mentor from church. After our conversation, Mr. Kyles knew DFG was the right fit, and I constantly thank God for the potential Mr. Kyles saw in me.

My favorite scripture and message to all believers is found in Galatians 5:1: "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage."

DFG, thank you for encouraging me to be free to become my best me!

Maya Breeze is a sophomore at Riverwood International Charter School and an active member in her church and community. For the past year, Maya has participated in the Destined for Greatness program as both a volunteer and youth advocate. DFGOYC offers Maya an outlet to do what she loves which is helping others. “I have seen and appreciate the passion and vision Mr. Kyles has for the youth in our community,“ Maya said. “I look forward to seeing what exciting new activities DFGOYC has to offer in the coming year.”

Maya is passionate about children and plans to be a Pediatrician. For the past two years, Maya has worked as a mentor at a summer camp and will continue her efforts in the coming year. Maya’s sincerity and love for children resinates with the youth she supports. Maya has also been involved in Beta Club for over four years and is a member of the Leaders of Tomorrow (LOT) Program. Maya’s hobbies are reading, modeling, dancing and music.

My name is Darrius J. Johnson. I am the son of a pastor, born on May 1, 1996. My parents have, and will continue, to push me onward toward great things. I graduated from Basix Knowledge Academy in June 2014 and will attend Point University in September and study Business Management and computer design. My hobbies are singing/rapping, music and basketball.

Destined For Greatness has made a great impact on my life. The love, care and support they show is out of this world. DFGOYC has been behind me since I found out about this group. The outreach program has changed my heart tremendously, and Mr. Kyles has been a big help in life. I love being part of this group. We are going on to bigger and greater things DFG!

“The righteous keep moving forward, and those with clean hands become stronger and stronger.” (Job 17:9)

My name is Brad A. Griffith, Jr. I was born on February 5, 1997, at Southern Regional Hospital and am a native of Riverdale, Georgia. Currently a junior at Woodland High School, I play linebacker and running back for the Woodland Wolf Packs. My goal is to receive a football scholarship to attend college and major in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. My hobbies include football, rapping, fashion and cooking.

Since participating in DFGOYC, I have learned how to cooperate with the people in my community and to project a positive influence on myself and those around me. Destined For Greatness has taught me think of others and not just myself. God has put me on Earth for a purpose. I believe it is to show others the love of God by my example of “How I cleaned up my act!” Minister Kyles has been a strong influence on my life, showing me how to take this step and taking the time to tell me what I was doing wrong. My parents have also led me and my family on the right path. I am very blessed to have family and friends that push me to become an outstanding person in life.

“Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” (Luke 6:38)

My name is Isaiah Maurice Emmanuel Leonard. Currently a senior at Union Grove High School, I look forward to graduation and going to college to pursue an acting career with a degree in film, music production, writing and directing. Additionally, I own and operate “Isaiah's Snack In A Bag Non Profit Foundation” and am in development on an upcoming record label “First Flight Music Group.”

DFGOYC provides a great opportunity and positive outlet for me to have fun and meet peers from around the city. While standing in support and unity of many great causes, DFGOYC is also a way for me to share my gifts, talents and dreams as I adhere to the call of ministry in my community. Destined For Greatness has allowed me to serve, encourage and be a beacon of hope to others. Leadership development and positive community involvement while I am on this path of fulfilling my God given purpose ... that is “destined for greatness”... and that is why I support and participate.

I would like to add that I am blessed to have a mother and father who have shown me the right path and whose love runs deep in God's word. In all that I do, I will keep Jesus Christ first and foremost in my life and will never forget that “I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)