THE BILL RUSSELL WAY
We are filled with gratitude after an unforgettable evening at the inaugural Bill Russell Impact Classic hosted by the University of San Francisco.
LEADER Spotlight: Alex Kindler
We are thrilled to feature Alex Kinder in this month’s spotlight. That’s right! Not only is he coaching, but he’s an alum of our program. Take a look at what being a leader means to him!
With Gratitude: A Year Made Possible by You
As we close the chapter on 2025, we’re filled with gratitude.
LEADER Spotlight: Bobby Pedrero
From program alum to EMA coach, we are thrilled to feature Bobby Pedrero in this month’s spotlight. Take a look at what being a leader means to him!
When Vision Becomes Community
There are moments that remind us why Empower ME Academy exists and our latest Behind the Vision Night was one of them.
LEADER Spotlight: Jacob Elsner
We are thrilled to feature Jacob Elsner in this month’s spotlight. Take a look at what being a leader means to him!
From Courts to Classrooms
As the long days of summer wind down, there’s no shortage of energy from our student-leaders. The last couple of weeks have been packed with growth, skill-building, and memories.
The Culture Combine is Coming!
What if your child’s next basketball experience wasn’t just about making a team but becoming the kind of leader the world needs more of?
A Strong Board & Bolder Future
Every great movement is powered by its people, those daring to believe in a better future and are bold enough to help build it.
LEADER Spotlight: Jestyn Marks
We are thrilled to feature Jestyn Marks in this month’s spotlight. Take a look at what being a leader means to him!
LEADER Spotlight: Rafa Ledesma
We are thrilled to feature Rafael Ledesma in this month’s spotlight. Take a look at what being a leader means to him!
New Chapter, Same Mission
We’re proud to announce that Coach Gumbs will be joining the Stuart Hall High School boys’ basketball program as an Assistant Coach!
Introducing Team L.E.A.D.E.R.S
Greatness isn’t given, it’s earned through dedication, resilience, and belief in one’s potential. We train elite athletes and builds heart leaders – on and off the court.
LEADER Spotlight: Oscar Karlen
We are thrilled to feature Oscar Karlen in this month’s spotlight. Take a look at what being a leader means to him!
Keeping Up With Good Habits
In a world that continues to value instant gratification and is filled with external distractions, see the journey of our student-leaders.
Learn From the Best: Pro Lessons on OUR CORE VALUES
Regardless of future plans, our mission revolves around instilling these core values: trust, relationships, integrity, and inclusion.
LEADER Spotlight: Nykol Rodriguez
We are thrilled to feature Nykol Rodriguez in this month’s spotlight. Take a look at what being a leader means to her!
LEADER Spotlight: Tatiana Newsome
We are thrilled to feature Tatiana Newsome in this month’s spotlight. Take a look at what being a leader means to her!
The Why in the Decline
Youth sports are becoming more professionalized than professional sports. Uncovering the decline: exploring the factors affecting youth sports participation.
10 Years of Empowering Leaders
It brings me so much joy to share that Empower ME Academy (EMA) has reached the significant milestone of ten years!

