This month, we proudly highlight Quynton Curry, a 16-year-old junior who has been a dedicated member of Kismet of Kings for the past three years. Throughout this summer, Quynton emerged as a reliable student leader and a positive presence within the program.

On September 13th, our Kings had the unforgettable experience of attending the Rutgers v. Norfolk State football game! From the energy of the crowd to the excitement on the field, the day was filled with team spirit, brotherhood, and memories that will last a lifetime. For many of our young men, this was their first time inside a college stadium, giving them a glimpse of campus life and the opportunities that higher education can bring.

On August 14th, we hosted our fourth such field tripyoung men of Kismet of Kings will be visiting the top social media creative & production agency in the industry, VaynerMedia, as an extension of KoK Summer Entrepreneurial Program. 

The Hustle Blueprint is a reoccurring business & marketing workshop designed to equip our young entrepreneurs with an executable understanding of how to develop, launch, and sustain a business. Hosted by digital strategist & KoK board member, Jason Velliquette, these 3-hour quarterly workshops provide structured, hands-on training focused on entrepreneurship fundamentals, brand positioning, and digital presence. Participants leave each session with practical skills and actionable steps to bring their business ideas to life and maintain long-term success.

On August 7, Kismet of Kings hosted Girlz Love Tech at our program site for a powerful and eye-opening technology workshop. The session introduced our young men to the evolving world of artificial intelligence, offering foundational lessons on AI tools, real-world applications, and responsible usage across school, business, and everyday life.

On July 29, the young men of Kismet of Kings traveled to the New York Giants Training Center in East Rutherford for an unforgettable day of exposure, inspiration, and firsthand learning. The group had the rare opportunity to sit field-side and watch a live NFL training camp practice, gaining a close look at the focus, discipline, and intensity it takes to perform at the highest level.

To celebrate the strong start to our summer program, Kismet of Kings kicked off the season with a rewarding trip to Dave & Buster’s on July 18. After two weeks of consistent effort, discipline, and engagement in workshops and leadership sessions, our young men earned a well-deserved day of fun and bonding outside the classroom setting.

On April 5th, the energy at Kismet of Kings was electric as our young entrepreneurs brought six weeks of vision, discipline, and imagination to life at the 2025 Entrepreneurial Expedition. What began as a collection of ideas blossomed into a dynamic showcase of real, tangible business ventures—crafted, refined, and presented by the bold minds of tomorrow’s leaders.

This year, Lewis Spears, our Founder and Executive Director of Kismet of Kings, was honored as a Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award recipient — a prestigious statewide recognition celebrating individuals who go above and beyond to make New Jersey a better place.

On May 18th, 2025, more than 200 guests gathered at The View in Jersey City for a night that shimmered with promise, pride, and powerful purpose. This year’s Kismet of Kings Gala, themed “Transforming Dreams Into Achievements,” was more than a celebration—it was a declaration. A declaration that our young men are not waiting for change. They are leading it.

On April 5th, the energy at Kismet of Kings was electric as our young entrepreneurs brought six weeks of vision, discipline, and imagination to life at the 2025 Entrepreneurial Expedition. What began as a collection of ideas blossomed into a dynamic showcase of real, tangible business ventures—crafted, refined, and presented by the bold minds of tomorrow’s leaders.

On April 5th, the energy at Kismet of Kings was electric as our young entrepreneurs brought six weeks of vision, discipline, and imagination to life at the 2025 Entrepreneurial Expedition. What began as a collection of ideas blossomed into a dynamic showcase of real, tangible business ventures—crafted, refined, and presented by the bold minds of tomorrow’s leaders.

On April 5th, the energy at Kismet of Kings was electric as our young entrepreneurs brought six weeks of vision, discipline, and imagination to life at the 2025 Entrepreneurial Expedition. What began as a collection of ideas blossomed into a dynamic showcase of real, tangible business ventures—crafted, refined, and presented by the bold minds of tomorrow’s leaders.

On the evening of March 28th, sixteen of our young men gathered at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Downtown Jersey City for one of Kismet of Kings' most cherished annual traditions — our Spring Sleep In. This overnight event isn’t just about rest and relaxation; it’s designed to create safe space, spark real conversations, strengthen brotherhood, and expose our Kings to new professional pathways. Thanks to the generous partnership and hospitality of the DoubleTree team, this year’s experience was nothing short of extraordinary.

Our young men recently had the incredible opportunity to visit Amazon Web Services, a trip that was both educational and inspiring. Spearheaded by one of our visionary Board members, Sharmonique Shade, and led by our dedicated staff members, Nevin Perkins and Kalel Redd, the boys were introduced to a world of innovation and career possibilities.

Our 2024 Kingsgiving event, held on November 25th at the Light Rail Café, was an extraordinary success! This special evening brought together our young men, families, and community members to celebrate the spirit of gratitude, unity, and giving. Guests were treated to a warm and welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and heartfelt moments of connection as we reflected on the impact of our shared efforts throughout the year.

As a part of our recent “Health is Wealth” initiative, Dr. Ibn Shakoor, EdD hosted a series of workshops for our young men focused on mental health, emotional intelligence, and conflict resolution. Over the course of the summer, our Kings not only grew individually, but also learned to better support each other as a community.

Dr. Ibn went above and beyond to also set up studio sessions and helped our Kings write and record the “K.O.K.” anthem. The project culminated with the above music video that showcases their journey and personal growth.

We hope you enjoy it as much as our young men did in creating it.

On June 25th, the young men of Kismet of Kings experienced a day filled with learning, camaraderie, and important discussions, led by Nevin Perkins and Erroll Worrell. The day kicked off with an enlightening campus tour of Hudson County Community College, where the boys explored the campus, learned about educational opportunities, discussed culturally relevant information, and enjoyed a meal together.

At Kismet of Kings, we believe in the power of exposure and experience as catalysts for growth and inspiration. Our second annual “All Things Advertising” Field Trip stands as a testament to this belief, offering our young men a window into the dynamic world of marketing and advertising.

In this tapestry of elegance and purpose, we witnessed the transformative power of unity and community. Each interaction, each shared moment, served as a testament to the profound impact we can achieve when we come together with purpose and passion.