Leonard’s Narrative: “I grew up in the Democratic Republic of Congo in the continent of Africa. I migrated with my family to the United States in Boston, Massachusetts, at sixteen. I studied at Fisk University, a historical Black College in Nashville, Tennessee. Fisk helped me develop my unparalleled ability as a Poet, Public Speaker, Youth Mentor, and Community advocate. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services and my Master’s in Psychology/Behavioral Health, from the University of Phoenix Online. I am currently a Leadership Psychology Doctorate Candidate at William James College. In the past, I’ve worked for various mental health agencies in Massachusetts, where I provided Therapeutic Mentoring, Advocacy support, and Therapeutic Coaching. I also helped clients enhance interpersonal communications skills, build relationships, practice safety, and develop a coping plan while facilitating groups and helping them obtain community resources. What I appreciate most about Fathers’ UpLift is the overall mission and the constant advocacy for our fathers.”

If I could invite one person to dinner with my family, it would be Denzel Washington.