ABOUT MALE MOGUL INITIATIVE
Founded on Humble Principles with Big Goals
Walter Mendenhall, a former NFL running back and Chicago native, started the Male Mogul Initiative after meeting a young man on Chicago’s West Side who was bright, athletic, and academically gifted. Despite his exceptional qualities, this individual sold drugs to support himself and his family. He was on a dangerous path, one that is all too familiar to many young men of color in Chicago.
This encounter left a significant impression on Walter and inspired him to take action. He gathered five young men in a church basement on the West Side of Chicago to discuss how youths of color could best fulfill their potential and lead their marginalized communities to better futures.
Today, the Male Mogul Initiative has mentored thousands of young men from the South and West Side neighborhoods of Chicago, continuing Walter’s mission to empower and uplift.
Making a Difference through Mentorship
The Male Mogul Initiative is committed to empowering young men of color. We guide and mentor Black and Brown youth, providing them with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. By instilling confidence and teaching practical skills, we help them realize their potential and achieve their goals.
Our aim is to cultivate generations of exceptional leaders and role models from Chicago’s under-resourced neighborhoods. Our mentors are role models and examples of success from those same neighborhoods, so our program participants can see for themselves what their own success can look like.
Join us in creating a brighter future for the next generation of leaders.
Our Partners
