Meet Our Team

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Athuman Murya moved from Tanzania to Iowa in March 2021 and connected with Genesis Youth Foundation through his shared passion for soccer with Co-founder Sam Gabriel. With a lifelong dedication to the sport, including college-level play, Athuman was inspired by Genesis’ mission and joined to mentor young athletes.

As Coordinator and Coach for the U14 Competitive Soccer Program, he applies his experience and leadership to help players grow on and off the field. His passion for soccer and commitment to youth empowerment make him a key part of the Genesis team.

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.

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.

Jonathan Williams, born in Liberia and a recent college graduate, brings a personal connection to his role at Genesis Youth Foundation. Having experienced the challenges of adapting to a new culture in the U.S., he is passionate about creating a supportive environment for immigrant youth.

Jonathan chose to work at Genesis because it brings him joy and reminds him of his own journey. His dedication and love for soccer make him a valuable mentor, helping young athletes build confidence, teamwork, and a sense of belonging.