At the Young Distinguished Gentlemen Elite Program we believe that it takes more than a curriculum to shape a young man — it takes people. Real people. Committed people. People who genuinely care about who these young men are becoming.
We are honored and privileged to partner with an extraordinary team of mentors, facilitators, and community leaders who bring their expertise, their passion, and their hearts to our program every single season.
From ministry and counseling to financial literacy, martial arts, and leadership development — our team represents a diverse and powerful community of professionals united by one common purpose: to raise young men of integrity, purpose, and excellence.
It is our privilege to introduce you to the remarkable men and women who pour into the lives of our Young Distinguished Gentlemen throughout the 2025 — 2026 program year.
Dr. Cheryl Knowles Founder & Program Director | Young Distinguished Gentlemen Elite Program
Dr. Knowles believes that every young person carries greatness — and she has made it her priority to help them discover it.
A youth development advocate, passionate mentor, and licensed Minister of the Gospel, Dr. Knowles is committed to helping young men grow in purpose, integrity and excellence — developing confidence, character, leadership, and purpose through mentorship, education, life skills, and personal development.
With more than a decade of investment in youth development she founded Sapphire International Girls Network — now celebrating 12 remarkable years of empowering young ladies to live life purposefully. From the heart of Sapphire was born its brother organization — the Young Distinguished Gentlemen Elite Program — now proudly entering its 3rd Cohort and continuing to raise young men of integrity, purpose, and excellence.
She was mentored under the late and legendary Dr. Myles Munroe for over 25 years — a relationship that profoundly shaped her vision for leadership, purpose, and kingdom impact.
Dr. Knowles brings warmth, wisdom, excellence, love and real-world guidance to every session. Her heart is to help young men become respectful, confident, disciplined, and purpose-driven leaders — both now and in the future.
Pastor Clarice Thompson Associate Pastor — Global Outreach Ministries
Pastor Clarice Thompson brings a wealth of spiritual wisdom and leadership experience to our program. As Associate Pastor of Global Outreach Ministries she has a deep passion for nurturing the next generation in faith, purpose and godly character. Her sessions inspire our young men to develop a strong spiritual foundation and a heart for service.
Sensei Ronald Martin — Master Smokey Founder — Smokey’s Karate School
Sensei Ronald Martin, affectionately known as Master Smokey, is the Founder of Smokey’s Karate School and a dedicated instructor with years of experience developing discipline, respect, and confidence in young people. His sessions go far beyond physical training — they build the mental strength, self-discipline, and character that define a truly distinguished gentleman.
Pastor E. Corey Rolle Youth Pastor — Bahamas Faith Ministries International
Pastor E. Corey Rolle connects with young men in a way that is real, relevant, and deeply impactful. As Youth Pastor of Bahamas Faith Ministries International he brings energy, authenticity, and a genuine love for young people to every session. His sessions challenge our young gentlemen to live boldly for God and embrace their identity in Christ.
Pastors Audra & Brian Bain Senior Pastors — Judah’s House
Pastors Audra and Brian Bain are dynamic leaders with a powerful shared ministry and a heart for family, faith, and community. As Senior Pastors of Judah’s House they bring a wealth of pastoral wisdom, spiritual insight, and genuine love for young people to our program. Their sessions inspire our young gentlemen to embrace their God-given identity, honor their families, and lead with excellence in every area of life.
Mrs. Lakeisha Deveaux President — The Financial Academy
Mrs. Lakeisha Deveaux is a financial expert and educator with a passion for empowering young people with the knowledge and skills to build a strong financial future. As President of The Financial Academy she brings practical, real world financial wisdom to our program. Her sessions equip our young gentlemen with essential financial literacy skills — from budgeting and saving to entrepreneurship and wealth building.
Dr. Leonardo Allen Founder — Impacting Sons
Dr. Leonardo Allen is a visionary leader with a specific and powerful calling — to impact the lives of young men. As the Founder of Impacting Sons he brings practical wisdom, life experience, and a deep understanding of the challenges young men face today. His sessions equip our gentlemen with the tools they need to navigate life with confidence, integrity, and purpose.