Dear Friends,

For the past twelve years Banisters Leadership Academy has provided leadership development for youth in the community. The goal has always been to harness the leadership skills our youth possess and empower them to reach their fullest potential. We strive to support youth leaders academically and socially, while offering pathways to college or career.

Being a leader is not an easy task. Often, we don’t know what we are made of until we are faced with a challenge. Programs at Banisters Leadership Academy use the 12 Pillars of Leadership as the foundation to serve youth and families. Those pillars uniquely position our youth and families to grow as they transition from one Banisters leadership program to the next level of programming. We empower youth by providing critical thinking skills that help them make good decisions for their lives. Being involved in Banisters programs increases youths’ leadership skills, character development, self-awareness, academic success and community engagement.

Banisters Leadership Academy takes youth development seriously. We know that our children are the keepers of the future. They will be the future teachers, politicians, doctors, entrepreneurs, parents, neighbors and community builders. They will take the baton and continue the race to help create an equitable, thriving society. We are preparing these young people to lead.

Abigail Van Buren once said, “If you want children to keep their feet on the ground, put some responsibility on their shoulders.” Banisters Leadership Academy is fostering leadership in youth and preparing them to take their place in the community as leaders. It has been said that there is strength in numbers and it takes a village to raise a child, we ask you to join us in supporting youth and strengthening our community.

In Solidarity,

Akile L. Banister, M.S.O.M.

Banisters Leadership Academy Founder & CEO