About Us
Built from the block.
Built to lead.
At GOE Lead, we believe talent is distributed evenly, but opportunity is not. We proudly serve youth and young adults, ages 12 to 24, from working-class families and underserved communities by turning their passions into viable career pathways. Our movement began because we saw brilliant young people who lacked access to the high-level tools, safe spaces, and professional mentorship required to succeed in a digital world. Today, our programs offer a dynamic blend of creative arts, technical training, digital literacy, and professional development. We built a space where a teenager can walk in with an interest in a beat or a broken computer, and walk out with a professional portfolio, a technical certification, and the confidence to claim a seat at any table. What drives us forward is the undeniable proof of what happens when you invest in youth, because every track recorded, device refurbished, and career launched reminds us that equipping a young person with the right tools creates a leader who will change the world.
Mission Statement
To empower the next generation of youth by blending music education with leadership development to cultivate confident, creative future leaders.
Our History
From an idea to a movement.
GOE Lead was born in 2025 out of a vision to bridge the gap between passion and opportunity for today's youth. Founded with a deep commitment to guidance, opportunity, and empowerment, our journey began as a grassroots effort to provide young people with an outlet for their tech and musical talents. Recognizing that mentorship can change the entire trajectory of a life, we set out to build a safe space where curiosity is met with real-world skills, and where every young person is given the tools to thrive.
Since our founding, that initial spark has evolved into a thriving movement driven by the community and industry professionals alike. We have reached significant milestones, including launching our signature technology bootcamps, hosting our first youth showcases, and building invaluable partnerships with local businesses and community leaders. As we continue to grow, our reach expands, but our core mission remains steadfast: empowering the next generation of innovators, creators, and leaders to shape a brighter tomorrow.
Core Values
Faith
Faith is the anchor of everything we do. Rooted in the shared foundation of our founders, who were all raised in Christian households, faith inspires our belief in the unseen potential of every young person and guides our commitment to serving others with hope, purpose, and integrity. We walk by faith to build an environment where youth feel deeply valued and encouraged to pursue their highest callings.
Family
We believe that strong communities begin with strong foundations. Family, both biological and chosen, is at the heart of our village; we walk alongside parents and guardians to create a supportive, inclusive environment where every youth feels safe, seen, and loved.
Leadership
True leadership is about influence, empathy, and service. We challenge our youth to lead by example, equipping them with the critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and professional skills needed to become positive changemakers in their own communities.
Excellence
We reject mediocrity and strive for the highest standards in everything we produce and teach. From the quality of our mentorship to the dedication of our youth, excellence is not just a goal—it is a continuous habit and our standard of operation.
Leadership
Board members & staff.
The people behind the mission.
Destiny Thomas
Chief Project Officer
As Chief Project Officer, Destiny oversees the design, timeline, and execution of GOE Lead's primary community programs. Combining strong project management skills with operational agility, Destiny transforms organizational strategy into measurable, high-impact community initiatives.
Ája Domonique
CAPABILITY DEVELOPEMENT MANAGER
Ája serves as the Capability Development Manager for GOE Lead, focusing on mentorship, skills building, and professional growth frameworks. Passionate about human capital, Ája designs engaging pathways that unlock individual potential and prepare community members for future professional opportunities.
Charrell Collins
Co-Founder, Board Treasurer & Director of Technology
As Co-Founder, Board Treasurer, and Director of Technology, Charrell anchors GOE Lead's operational framework. Charrell pairs strategic financial oversight with deep technical expertise, driving both the fiscal integrity and the digital infrastructure of the organization. Dedicated to sustainable impact, Charrell focuses on building secure, scalable technology solutions and strategic partnerships that empower the community.
Eddie West
Co-Founder, Board Member & Creative Director
As Co-Founder and Creative Director, Eddie brings vital vision and leadership to GOE Lead's identity and community outreach. Overseeing creative direction, Eddie ensures the organization's mission is communicated powerfully and authentically across all media. Passionate about community advocacy, Eddie guides foundational branding, narrative strategy, and resource alignment to spark lasting engagement.
Sam Newton
Co-Founder, Board Member & Director of Technical Trades
As Co-Founder and Director of Technical Trades, Sam leverages a rich background as a skilled tradesman to lead GOE Lead's practical, hands-on community initiatives. Sam is dedicated to creating vocational pathways, fostering mentorship, and delivering real-world skills training. By championing technical excellence and resource alignment, Sam helps equip individuals with the tangible tools needed for long-term professional success.