Jacoby Waters

Founder, CEO & Executive Director of Young Men of Distinction & Gentlemen of Distinction.

What is the best way to achieve a dream or a goal? Learn from someone that achieved the same goal or dream, or someone that has more knowledge or expertise in that area than you do.

His stepfather and grandfather have provided him with knowledge and expertise creating a strong foundation in his life. He also received great guidance from neighbors – helping to develop his morals and values. With a strong foundation and great guidance, he achieved several goals and he is continuing his journey toward his dream.

His humility and gratitude provided the inspiration to create Young Men of Distinction with the help of several key collaborators to achieve one goal – provide tools and resources for young men to achieve their goals and dreams.

Currently, Young Men of Distinction will be at Dr. Mary McCleod Bethune Elementary School, Belle Glade Elementary School, Howell L. Watkins Middle School, Forest Hill High School and returning back to John I. Leonard High School.

Our Vision - Our vision is to cultivate a mentoring culture where all members of the community, regardless of gender, background, or identity, are empowered to thrive. We aim to support individuals in becoming compassionate leaders, nurturing caregivers, engaged community members, lifelong learners, and successful contributors in all aspects of life.

Mission Statement - Our mission is to empower adolescents from all backgrounds to thrive by providing mentorship, motivation, and guidance. We aim to support their development into purposeful young adults, equipping them with the tools to pursue higher education and achieve their fullest potential.

Board of Directors

Board Director

Saro Ntagha, DHA, MBA, BS

Currently serves as an Off-Shift Administrator at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. With a solid four-year tenure at MD Anderson, Saro brings a wealth of experience to his current role, having previously served in external organizations as Associate Director of Environmental Services and an Engineering Analyst Supervisor. Saro is a proud alumnus of Virginia University of Lynchburg, holding a Doctor of Healthcare Administration, while also earning a Master of Business Administration from Texas Woman's University and a Bachelor of Science in Geology from Centenary College of Louisiana, where he excelled as a student-athlete in basketball. Beyond his professional pursuits, Saro finds fulfillment in spending time with his daughter, Kaisley, traveling the world, and giving back to his community through volunteer work with his fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.

Board Treasurer

Dr.Corey Harrington

My name is Corey Harrington and I'm originally from Raleigh, NC. I began my career in healthcare as an EMT-Paramedic right after high school. I chose to pursue a career in chiropractic because I wanted to care for patients outside of the emergency setting through a whole-body, holistic approach. I received my Doctorate of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree from Palmer College in Davenport, IA. I've spent the last 8+ years primarily in the private practice, and I’ve worked for Broward College as an adjunct professor in the Math and Science Department. I'm currently working for the College of Chiropractic Medicine at Keiser University as a Faculty Clinician. In addition to my current role as faculty clinician I also serve as the Veteran Affairs/Department of Defense (VA/DoD) Liaison. My professional memberships include the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated.

Board Director

Yolanda Cope

Yolanda Cope, a native of Palm Beach County, currently holds the position of Lead Courtroom Administrator at the Palm Beach Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller. Yolanda holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Keiser University and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminology from Florida State University. Yolanda has accumulated over 25 years of management expertise. She is the mother of three children whom she deeply loves. She enjoys traveling, cooking, and reading during her leisure time. She attributes one of her greatest sources of happiness to her volunteer work. Yolanda believes in the importance of giving back and demonstrating compassion. The National Coalition of 100 Black Women-West Palm Beach Chapter, the Junior League of the Palm Beaches, and the South Florida Chapter of The National Organization of Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) are just a few of the renowned organizations that Yolanda has been known to be a member of. Keiser University recently recognized Yolanda as a Hometown Hero for her exceptional experience and unwavering determination during her MBA program.

Board Member

Micheal Stoddard Jr.

Board Member

Ryan Hamze

Ryan is a Principal Consultant in the Smart Manufacturing advisory group under the Americas Consulting. He leads smart manufacturing initiatives in Industry 4.0/5.0, Generative AI, and digital transformation. His expertise across multiple sectors includes Manufacturing and Automotive, with a strong focus on sourcing and digital engineering strategies. Recognized as an industry thought leader in Smart Manufacturing and Generative AI, he is Certified as an ISG Digital & AI Fellow. He also conducts emerging tech research and speaks publicly on topics such as digital threads, dark factories, and the evolving role of AI in Industry 5.0. During Ryan’s 16 years of enterprise IT leadership experience, he has helped organizations achieve double-digit cost reductions and operational efficiencies, leading full-scale digital transformations that have automated millions of dollars in production workflows. He specializes in hyper-automating processes using both legacy enterprise and emerging technologies, focuses largely on reducing operations downtime and similar cost savings efforts. In his spare time, Ryan is involved in several programs mentoring young professionals and volunteering in local organizations. Ryan holds a Masters’ degree in Information Technology Management from Western Governors University, a Bachelors in Computer Communications, and also certified as a PMP practitioner and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. He’s also been named on Arab America Foundation’s national 40 under 40 list, and won one of Wichita Business Journal’s 2022 Innovation Award for his Modular Hydroponic IoT Farm design.

Board Member

Nathan Klarer

Nathan Klarer Business Leader, Innovator, and Mentor Nathan Klarer is a dynamic business leader and entrepreneur whose journey exemplifies the power of education, innovation, and leadership. As CEO of Klarer International Business Group and Grey Ghost Strategies, Nathan has built a reputation for excellence in advanced technology development and global real estate investment. His career demonstrates how vision, perseverance, and ethical leadership can create meaningful impact across industries. A graduate of UC San Diego's prestigious Bioengineering program, Nathan founded his first company at a young age and was recognized among "27 CEOs Under 27" by Entrepreneur.com. His leadership at Datyra has helped build a team of 40+ researchers and engineers who develop cutting-edge solutions in bioengineering, machine learning, and energy for high-growth technology companies and government partners. Nathan's commitment to education extends beyond his businesses. He has designed and instructed courses for Udacity's Deep Learning and Data Science Nanodegree programs, sharing his expertise in artificial intelligence and data analysis with students worldwide. As a published author, his insights on technology, leadership, and innovation have appeared in Forbes, Inc. Magazine, and other major publications. Beyond professional achievements, Nathan embraces personal challenges through Spartan Races, marathons, and martial arts training—activities that build the discipline, resilience, and determination he brings to all aspects of life. These same qualities drive his passion for mentoring young people and helping them discover their own potential. Nathan's diverse experience—from engineering to entrepreneurship, from real estate development to teaching—gives him a unique perspective on the pathways to success in today's complex world. His story demonstrates that with education, integrity, and perseverance, young men can build meaningful careers and make positive contributions to their communities and the world.

Staff Members

SONIA GILBERT

Staff

Executive Director

SOLOMON FLEMING

Staff

Junior Staff

TYRELL WARRING

Staff

Junior Staff

Joseph Bedford, Sr.

Staff

Our Volunteers

VOLUNTEER WITH YMOD

OUR STRENGTH - We are as strong as our results, and most of which come directly from our volunteers. We value their hard work and efforts that continue to make a difference in what we can do. Contact us to find out more information.