LEADERS Spotlight: Jestyn Marks

1. What does being a Leader mean to you?

Being a leader to me means providing the energy that my team needs at every moment.

2. What’s your favorite part of being a leader?

My favorite part of being a leader is being held accountable and taking responsibility for my actions, and setting a positive tone for my team.

3. How has EMA helped you become the leader you are today?

Through EMA, Coach Gumbs has empowered ALL of his players to be CONFIDENT, VOCAL, and to PUSH themselves beyond their comfort, and this has helped me become a better leader in everything that I do.

4. What’s the best thing you’ve learned at EMA?

The best thing I’ve learned at EMA is how to be comfortable with being vulnerable, and how to overcome challenges, while being determined and intentional in my development.

5. How do you show up as a leader on and off the court?

I show up as a leader on and off the court by being consistent in holding myself to the same standards as when I’m playing basketball or when I’m just doing everyday stuff.

Such as, helping my teammates off the floor when they fall, or when I’m traveling with my family and opening the door for my mom, or even asking my parents if they have a couple dollars to spare when I see a homeless person.

Like a true combo guard, I find myself always trying to assist 😉

6. Who are some leaders that you look up to and why?

I look up to Kobe Bryant, Jared Mccain, and my parents.

Kobe Bryant for his mamba mentality. I have heard so many stories about Kobe being at the gym several hours before practice putting in work.

Being the example by doing what it takes to be great.

Jared Mccain for his positive attitude, but an ultimate competitor when he is playing basketball. Jared Mccain personality and AURA off the court is unmatched.

Kobe and Jared both lead by example. They are the STANDARD, they are the RULE!

Lastly, my parents are two leaders that I look up to. They put in so much time and energy and effort to make sure that me and my brother have the best opportunities not only in basketball but even school.

My dad wakes up at 1AM every day to go to work but still takes us to practice in San Fransisco to get home and only get a few hours of sleep every night.

Watching my mom go through cancer and having three surgeries but she still helps us with our homework and shows up to our practices and games with a smile on her face like it is not even bothering her.

I want my parents to know that they are two leaders that I look up to and appreciate everything they do and I am thankful.

7. Define EMA with one sentence.

Helping kids evolve, expand, and grow into outstanding people with great character, through the development of basketball, regardless of their skill and ability.