Empowering Youth to Lead with Purpose
The Ubuntu Leadership Academy at Genesis Youth Foundation is a transformative leadership program for immigrant and refugee youth in grades 3–12. Rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu, which means “I am because we are,” the program cultivates young servant leaders who understand the value of community, cultural identity, and responsibility.
Through year-round programming in leadership, academics, workforce readiness, and the arts, Ubuntu equips youth to thrive at home, in school, and in society.
Academic Success
Servant Leadership Training
Workforce & Career Exploration
Cultural Arts & Expression
Too many immigrant and refugee youth are left out of leadership opportunities. Ubuntu changes that. We help students find their voice, strengthen their academic foundation, and step into leadership roles—on their teams, in their homes, and in their communities.
Youth who complete the program go on to become peer mentors, college students, business owners, and changemakers in their families and beyond.
Program runs July–June
during the school year, with summer internship opportunities.
Activities held at the Genesis Youth Foundation Learning Center
2500 University Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50311
Signup:
🔗 Ubuntu Academy Enrollment Form
📞 Contact us:
(515) 219-7428
info@GenesisYouthFoundation.org
Celebrating Culture. Building Confidence. Inspiring Purpose.
The Performing Arts & Dance Program at Genesis Youth Foundation gives youth a stage to express their voices, explore their culture, and grow in confidence. Rooted in African traditions and Christian values, the program combines gospel music, praise dance, and Afrobeats to help youth connect with their identity, build sisterhood and brotherhood, and develop leadership through the arts.
Voices in Praise Children’s Choir
Praise Dance & Afrobeats Dance
Cultural Exploration & Identity
Leadership & Teamwork
This program creates a safe, joyful space for youth—especially girls—to find their voice, grow in self-esteem, and strengthen their relationship with God and others. Through music and movement, participants learn the power of unity, self-expression, and spiritual growth.
Open to boys and girls ages 8–18 enrolled in Genesis Youth Foundation programming. No previous experience is needed—just a heart ready to learn and grow.
Want to help us build up the next generation of artists and leaders? We welcome volunteers, choreographers, and donations of instruments, dancewear, and audio equipment.
Contact us at (515) 219-7428
Empowering Young Creators Through Culture and Craft
Sewing Seeds for the Future is more than just a sewing class—it’s a movement to equip youth, especially girls, with creative skills, cultural pride, and the mindset of entrepreneurship. Through hands-on learning in sewing and design, students connect with their heritage, express themselves through fashion, and gain skills they can carry into adulthood.
Sewing Basics
Fashion Design
Cultural Connection
Entrepreneurship & Life Skills
Youth ages 9–18 who are part of the Genesis Youth Foundation afterschool or summer programs. All skill levels are welcome—no sewing experience required.
For many of our participants, this program is their first introduction to using a sewing machine or expressing themselves through art. It builds confidence, patience, and purpose. Youth leave with practical skills they can use in high school, college, or even to start their own side businesses.
Do you have extra fabric, thread, or sewing machines to donate? Interested in volunteering your time to mentor or teach? Reach out to us at info@GenesisYouthFoundation.org. Help us keep sewing seeds for the next generation.
Creating, Innovating, and Empowering the Next Generation
The Digital Arts & Technology Program at Genesis Youth Foundation is designed to inspire creativity and build 21st-century skills in immigrant and refugee youth. Through hands-on learning in graphic design, photography, video production, and technology, our students gain the tools they need to tell their stories, explore career pathways, and become leaders in a digital world.
Digital Arts Training
Technology Skills Development
Media Production Studio
Students learn how to operate cameras, lights, microphones, and editing software to create:
Career Exploration & Portfolio Building
In a world where digital skills are essential, our program provides equitable access to tools, training, and mentorship. Students not only learn how to use technology—they learn how to lead with it. Many of our youth go on to create digital campaigns, help run our social media, or support community projects with their creative skills.
Middle and high school students enrolled in the Genesis Youth Foundation afterschool program or summer internship tracks. No prior experience needed—just a passion to learn and create.
Ready to unlock your creative and tech potential? Reach out to our Digital Arts Program team at (515) 219-7428
Want to volunteer or donate equipment? We’d love your support!
Give your child the tools to succeed with the Ubuntu Leadership Academy Tutoring and Homework Help Program at Genesis Youth Foundation!
Our program provides one-on-one and group academic support to help students stay on track, improve their grades, and build confidence in learning.
Students will also receive access to their own personalized online learning platform, where they can continue practicing their academic skills anytime and anywhere.
Students will also receive access to their own personalized online learning platform, where they can continue practicing their academic skills anytime and anywhere.
Low program fees
Scholarships available for low-income families
Installment payments accepted
Transportation for pick-up and drop-off available at a low monthly fee
Once you register, a member of our team will call you to complete the process and answer any questions.
Register your student today: https://forms.gle/
Together, let’s help your child succeed in school and beyond!
Are you a high school or college student looking for hands-on experience, leadership training, and service opportunities? The Ubuntu Leadership Academy Internship Program is the perfect way to build your skills, give back to the community, and earn recognition for your service.
Program Highlights:
Open to high school and college students
Counts toward Silver Cord hours and community service requirements
Gain leadership, teamwork, and professional skills
Work alongside mentors and community leaders
Free program – no cost to participate
Whether you’re preparing for college, career, or simply want to make a difference, this internship will give you the tools to grow and succeed.
Register today:https://forms.gle/
Our Mission:
To level the playing field by providing access to quality soccer training, mentorship, and life skills for youth from underserved communities.
Player Development
Academic Accountability
Cultural Integration & Support
Leagues & Tournaments
Pathway to Leadership
Our players don’t just learn to win games—they learn to lead, communicate, and represent their communities with pride. Many of our players are first-generation Americans and newcomers to the U.S., and Genesis FC is often their first team experience.
We meet them where they are—with shoes, uniforms, transportation, and encouragement—and walk with them every step of the way.
Practices and games are held throughout Des Moines and surrounding areas.
Registration Form (under 8 years old): https://forms.gle/XXXVofAT14kyLXSy6
Registration Form (8-10 years): https://forms.gle/VDrspuFd5PhnDuoz5
Registration Form (10-12 years): https://forms.gle/beEgEXt8FW3PgFXT8
Registration Form (12-14 years old): https://forms.gle/bhcW6UR11gRfBiJy6
Registration Form (14-16 years old): https://forms.gle/3zg1RKsBwuAREfiq8
Interested in sponsoring a player, volunteering, or partnering with us?
Contact us at
(515) 219-7428
info@GenesisYouthFoundation.org
or visit our center at
2500 University Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50311
Stay active and sharpen your skills all winter long with the Genesis FC Indoor Winter Soccer Program! Open to boys and girls ages 4 through high school, this program focuses on technical skills, small-sided games, and player development in a fun and supportive environment.
Two Sessions Available:
Session 1: November 3 – December 12, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Session 2: January 5 – March 13, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Focus Areas:
Technical skills
Passing, shooting, and footwork
Goalkeeping training
Small-sided games
Next Step: Participants will also have the opportunity to enroll in our Spring League and tournaments with Iowa Soccer to continue developing their skills in real competition.
Professional coaching
Indoor facility – train all winter
Open to all skill levels
Transportation available for a low monthly fee
Registration is now open! https://forms.gle/
Once you register, a member of our team will follow up to complete the process and answer any questions.
Empowering Families. Strengthening Futures.
At Genesis Youth Foundation, we believe that when families are supported, youth thrive. Our Family Support Program is designed to meet the unique needs of immigrant and refugee families as they adjust to life in the United States. We provide wraparound services that ensure children, parents, and guardians receive the guidance, tools, and resources they need to build strong, stable futures together.
Newcomer Navigation Support
We help newly arrived families navigate complex systems such as education, housing, healthcare, transportation, and employment. Our team works one-on-one with parents to:
Transportation Assistance
For families without reliable transportation, we offer safe, affordable van services to ensure children can attend afterschool programs, medical appointments, and special events. Scholarships are available for newly arrived families.
Home Visits & Check-Ins
We provide regular home visits and follow-up support to build trust, monitor student well-being, and address family needs in a culturally respectful and confidential manner.
Parent Education & Support
We facilitate workshops and discussion groups to equip parents with tools for:
Workforce & Life Skills Support
We assist parents in finding employment, preparing for interviews, and accessing language classes or vocational training. We also help families with:
Our Family Support Program has helped over 250 families from more than 15 cultural backgrounds connect, grow, and succeed. By bridging the gap between school, home, and community, we ensure that no family is left behind.
This program is open to all immigrant and refugee families whose children participate in Genesis Youth Foundation programs. Services are provided in multiple languages including Swahili, Arabic, French, Spanish, Somali, and Kinyarwanda.
Are you preparing for U.S. Citizenship or want to strengthen your English skills? Join the Ubuntu Leadership Academy Citizenship & English Workshop—a free program designed to support refugee and immigrant families in their journey toward citizenship and language learning.
Our workshops provide practical lessons in English and civics to help you prepare for the citizenship test while building confidence in everyday communication.
Two Sessions Available:
November Session: Monday–Friday, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
December Session: Monday–Friday, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Our workshops provide practical lessons in English and civics to help you prepare for the citizenship test while building confidence in everyday communication.
Register today: https://forms.gle/
Once you register, a member of our team will call you to complete the process and answer any questions.
