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About Us

Founding & Mission

Making the world a better place

Genesis Youth Foundation (GYF) was founded in 2009 with a simple yet powerful mission: to level the playing field for immigrant and refugee youth and their families in Iowa. Our journey began when our co-founders, Sam and Tricia Gabriel, recognized the unique challenges faced by these communities. As immigrants themselves, they experienced firsthand the difficulties of adapting to a new culture while trying to thrive in an unfamiliar environment. Inspired by their own struggles and successes, they set out to create a safe, nurturing space where children and families could receive the support they needed to succeed.

Growth & Programs

From humble beginnings in a small community space, GYF has grown into a dynamic organization offering a wide range of programs designed to empower youth and families. Our focus areas include academic support, leadership development, cultural enrichment, performing and digital arts, and athletics, with a strong emphasis on soccer through our Genesis Football Club. Over the years, we have impacted thousands of lives, helping young people discover their potential, stay connected to their cultural roots, and achieve their dreams.

Future Vision

Future Vision In 2025, we are embarking on an exciting new chapter with the launch of the Genesis Youth Foundation Learning Center. This dedicated space will provide enhanced educational opportunities, vocational training, and vital resources to support our families’ long-term success. Our vision is to create a hub where the next generation of leaders can flourish, supported by a community that believes in their potential.

Ubuntu Leadership Academy
From humble beginnings in a small community space, GYF has grown into a dynamic organization offering a wide range of programs designed to empower youth and families. Our focus areas include academic support, leadership development, cultural enrichment, performing and digital arts, and athletics, with a strong emphasis on soccer through our Genesis Football Club. Over the years, we have impacted thousands of lives, helping young people discover their potential, stay connected to their cultural roots, and achieve their dreams.

Ubuntu Leadership children learning at a table
children learning at table

How we do it?

Education
We believe education unlocks potential and creates pathways for opportunity. Our academic programs equip students with the skills and confidence to excel.
  • Personalized support helps students achieve academic success and build lifelong learning habits.
  • We offer STEM workshops, reading support, and leadership development tailored to individual learning needs.
  • We provide personalized learning paths and track student progress in core subjects
Developing Leaders
GYF instills servant leadership principles in youth, preparing them to create positive change in their communities.
  • Through training and real-world projects, students learn servant leadership skills inspired by global leaders.
  • Students design and lead community projects, advocacy campaigns, and cultural celebrations.
Fostering Cultural Pride through the Arts
We celebrate and preserve the cultural heritage of immigrant and refugee families by integrating the arts into everything we do.
  • Programs like gospel singing, Afrobeats dance, praise dance, and traditional performances allow youth to express themselves and connect with their roots.
  • Classes teach the art of African cooking, bridging generations and sharing cultural heritage with the broader community.
  • Students learn creative skills like graphic design, photography, and video editing, merging tradition with innovation.
  • Our Sewing Seeds for the Future program teaches practical sewing skills while exploring traditional African textiles and designs.
Promoting Athletic and Personal Growth
GYF’s Genesis FC soccer program builds teamwork, discipline, and leadership through athletic excellence.
  • Competitive Soccer Teams: Youth participate in leagues and tournaments, learning life skills on and off the field.
  • Next Move Youth League: Small-sided games offer fun, fast-paced opportunities to develop technical soccer skills.
  • Athletic Leadership: Coaches are trained to mentor players, emphasizing sportsmanship and community values.

Addressing Digital Equity

We bridge the digital divide to ensure every family has access to technology and training.
  • Youth and adults receive IT and digital marketing certifications to enhance career prospects.
  • Families gain essential skills to navigate the digital world confidently.
  • Families are provided with laptops and connectivity support, ensuring no one is left behind.

Supporting Families Holistically

Strong families are the backbone of thriving communities. GYF offers tailored support to ensure families can flourish together.
  • Transportation Services: Affordable transportation enables families to access education, healthcare, and community programs.
  • Parental Engagement: Parents are active participants in programming, serving on committees and contributing to cultural events.
  • Safe Haven Homes: Our vision includes creating secure housing for vulnerable youth and families in need.

Our People

The people who make things happen in our company and who believe and build the future.

Dan Seemuth

BOARD PRESIDENT

Dan Seemuth joined Genesis Youth Foundation in 2020 after hearing Sam Gabriel at the Contribution Breakfast Club. Inspired, he launched a volunteer van driving program to support student transportation. As South Region President at North Risk Partners, Dan brings leadership and passion to his role as Board President, advancing the foundation’s mission.
email Dan
Pastor Brian Brown

VICE PRESIDENT

Pastor Brian Brown, Vice President of Genesis Youth Foundation and Lead Pastor at Hope+Elim Church, brings leadership as a former Olympic athlete. Through the partnership with Hope+Elim Church, home to the Genesis Learning Center, he empowers youth and families with a passion for mentorship, leadership, and community impact.
email Pastor Brian
Jamesetta Mator

SECRETARY

Jamesetta Mator has been with Genesis Youth Foundation since 2017, serving two board terms. With a Master’s in Public Health, she brings expertise in community health and program development. As a Program Associate at the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, she focuses on education and public health initiatives. Her passion for empowering youth and families drives her commitment to the foundation’s mission.
email Jamesetta
John Bunz

BOARD MEMBER

John Bunz joined Genesis Youth Foundation as a volunteer van driver, gaining firsthand insight into its mission to support immigrant and refugee families. As an attorney at Ahlers & Cooney, P.C., he brings legal expertise and strategic guidance to the board. His dedication to service and passion for youth empowerment make him a key asset to the foundation.
email John
Jacob Hicks

FUNDRAISING

With over a decade of experience in sales and leadership, Jacob is passionate about creating systems that drive growth and help individuals achieve their goals. His journey with Genesis Youth Foundation began after meeting co-founder Sam Gabriel, whose inspiring story and vision resonated deeply with him. A trip to Liberia with Sam provided Jacob with a deeper understanding of Genesis’ mission and impact. Committed to empowering youth and families, Jacob is honored to support Genesis in creating lasting change in the community.
email Jacob
Sam Gabriel

CO-FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

With over 15 years of experience in youth development and nonprofit leadership, and a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration, Sam Gabriel has created impactful programs that foster academic success, leadership, cultural pride, and athletic excellence. His strategic partnerships with schools, organizations, and state agencies have strengthened GYF’s mission and expanded its reach.
email Sam
Tricia Gabriel

CO-FOUNDER & PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Tricia Gabriel, Co-founder and Program Director of Genesis Youth Foundation (GYF), is a dedicated Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Inspired by her healthcare experience, she pursued a master’s in Psychiatry Nursing to address the need for culturally responsive mental health services in underserved communities. Growing up in a refugee camp, Tricia was part of the Voices In Praise Choir, using performing arts to engage and empower young girls. She now brings that passion to GYF, using the arts to foster cultural pride, confidence, and holistic youth development.
email Tricia
Stanley Beyan

FAMILY SUPPORT COORDINATOR

Stanley Beyan first connected with Genesis Youth Foundation when his son joined the Genesis Football Club. Inspired by its impact, he enrolled in the Adult Basic Computer Program to enhance his skills. With a bachelor’s degree in economics from Liberia, Stanley was soon recruited to teach parents computer literacy, financial literacy, and English Language Learning.
Now as Family Support Coordinator, he helps immigrant and refugee families navigate challenges and access resources. His experience and passion for community empowerment make him a vital advocate for the families GYF serves.
email Stanley
Eliza Sackie

YOUTH SUCCESS COORDINATOR

Eliza Sackie has been part of Genesis Youth Foundation since its inception, joining as an elementary student. She deepened her involvement after high school through the Ubuntu Leadership Academy, where she trained in program delivery and youth engagement. Now serving as a Youth Success Coordinator and Ubuntu Leadership Academy Afterschool Program Coordinator, Eliza is dedicated to mentoring and supporting youth. Her journey from student to leader reflects the transformative impact of GYF, inspiring the next generation to reach their full potential.
email Eliza
Egan Kasigwe

NEXT MOVE SOCCER COACH

Egan joined Genesis Youth Foundation in 2022 through the Ubuntu Leadership Academy Work-Based Learning Program after arriving from Uganda. A lifelong soccer player, he embraced the foundation’s mission and, under the guidance of founders Tricia and Sam Gabriel, grew into a dedicated mentor and leader. As Next Move Soccer Coach & Coordinator, Egan uses soccer to teach young children teamwork, discipline, and life skills. His passion for the sport and commitment to youth development make him a vital part of the Genesis team.
email Egan
Jazmyn Smith

youth success coordinator

Jazmyn joined Genesis Youth Foundation in 2018 as a volunteer, supporting students with creative arts and tutoring. Her dedication led her to the AmeriCorps program, where she was mentored by co-founders Sam and Tricia Gabriel.
Now serving as a Youth Success Coordinator and Administrator, Jazmyn plays a key role in communications and program operations, helping students thrive academically and creatively while ensuring smooth program coordination.
email Jazmyn

​​Platinum Partners

($50,000+ in annual contributions or equivalent in-kind support)

​​Gold Partners

($25,000–$49,999
annually)

​​Silver Partners

($10,000–$24,999 annually)

​​Bronze Partners

($5,000–$9,999 annually)

​​Community Partners

(In-kind support, volunteers, joint programs)
START YOUR JOURNEY TODAY

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