Leadership

Bilal Munir Rahim is a husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and community leader committed to strengthening individuals, families, and communities through intentional service. His mentorship work began in 2016, focusing on leadership development, accountability, and culturally grounded rites of passage for young boys and young men.

In 2015, he founded Our Black Fathers Committee, an initiative dedicated to restoring the role of fathers through mentorship, community engagement, and father-centered leadership development. He also co-founded “Fight4Life” No Excuses and helped facilitate the S.O.N.S. Manhood Training Program (Saving Our Noble Sons), contributing to structured mentorship spaces that emphasize discipline, identity, responsibility, and long-term personal growth.

Bilal has education in computer hardware, networking, and security from Phoenix College and works professionally in the healthcare industry, where he applies a systems-focused, quality-driven approach. He is also passionate about fitness and holistic health, holding certifications as a personal trainer and diet and nutrition coach, and continues to pursue his love of music as an ongoing creative and cultural practice.

I grew up as an at-risk youth in Maryvale, Arizona, and experienced everything that the streets can teach you. Raised by a Baptist mother and stepdad who was with the Nation of Islam, I was taught core values and knowledge of self at a young age. I was taught to be proud of my culture and to never downplay that. Experience is the best teacher; with the trials and tribulations I’ve gone through, I now apply that knowledge in my mentoring with Our Black Fathers Committee.

We are the first all-black organization in Phoenix that is Afrikan-centered with our mentoring and guidance. For a long time in the city, Black Fathers and young Black men in this city were not represented correctly; we would have to go elsewhere to receive services and mentorship from someone we could not relate to. We have broken that cycle and will continue to do work, plant seeds, and live by the Afrikan proverb of Sankofa! We are in the process of opening up a community center that would help with fitness, employment resources, multimedia, and mentoring/counseling. The ultimate goal of our mission is to change the narrative of Black Fathers in the community one father at a time.

Hailing from Northern California, Jvion Jones is more than just a man with a remarkable story. He is a proud father, a 7x author, a speaker, a dedicated youth mentor, and the visionary owner of three ventures, including a printing company.

Beyond his entrepreneurial and literary pursuits, Jvion’s artistic ambitions led him to Los Angeles at the age of 18, where he pursued acting, modeling, and music. To date, he has recorded eight projects, a testament to his versatility and dedication to the art of expression.

In the literary domain, Jvion is the founder and proprietor of Ahvision Publishing. Through Ahvision, he publishes his works and supports aspiring authors in bringing their ideas to life. His enthusiasm for writing extends beyond his personal projects; Jvion finds immense joy in cultivating the development of new authors and guiding them through the intricate journey of storytelling.

Jvion’s journey took a turn when, in 2021, he faced the diagnosis of glioblastoma brain cancer. Despite the challenges, he emerged stronger and more determined than ever. Since the diagnosis, Jvion has defied the odds by publishing four additional books, showcasing his indomitable spirit and commitment to leaving a lasting legacy.

Thurston M. Smith is a distinguished development coach, captivating speaker, accomplished author, seasoned facilitator, and trusted consultant. His forte is demystifying intricate concepts, transforming them into easily relatable and comprehensible subjects. His insightful presentations have garnered acclaim from esteemed organizations such as Maricopa Big Speak Out and Toastmasters International, owing to his unwavering commitment to community development. Mr. Smith’s true passion lies in transforming people’s lives positively and enriching familial bonds.

In a world where parenting is rewarding and challenging, understanding and applying brain science has never been more essential. As a devoted father, Mr. Smith is deeply intrigued by the profound influence that effective parenting can have on a child’s development. His unshakable desire to make a lasting impact, especially in fathers’ lives, has drawn him to become a trainer for the Michael Gurian Institute.

His mission is to break the cycle of outdated parenting practices by engaging with fathers, fostering healthier relationships, enhancing communication skills, and cultivating greater emotional intelligence. Through thought-provoking workshops, impactful seminars, and personalized consultations, Mr. Smith is dedicated to empowering fathers to recognize their vast potential in shaping their children’s brains, thus contributing to a generation of emotionally intelligent and empathetic individuals.

L.O. Shivers is a dedicated husband and father, prioritizing his family above all else. With six children to care for, he understands the importance of creating a nurturing and supportive environment at home. Born and raised in South Phoenix, L.O. has deep roots in the community and a profound understanding of its needs and challenges.

In addition to his familial commitments, L.O. Shivers holds the esteemed position of Minister of Urban Affairs for the Our Black Fathers Committee. In this role, he advocates for the empowerment and upliftment of Black families, specifically Black fathers. With a passion for social justice and equality, L.O. works tirelessly to address systemic issues and create opportunities for positive change.

For over a decade, L.O. Shivers has been actively involved in community work throughout Phoenix, Arizona. His dedication to improving the lives of others has made a significant impact, earning him respect and admiration from colleagues and community members alike. Through his unwavering commitment and leadership, L.O. continues to be a driving force for progress and transformation in his beloved city.

Skai Harbor is an independent recording artist, writer, and cultural advocate from Phoenix, Arizona.

He came up in Phoenix's underground hip hop scene in the late 2000s and established his presence in 2013 with his first mixtape, Takin Flight the EP, releasing multiple projects and singles since under his family label, Problematik.

He has contributed to OBFC programs and events that connect music, creative expression, and community engagement, working at the intersection of music, entrepreneurship, and community development, and using his creative platform to support young people and to grow the visibility of the culture that shapes his work.