About Us
Our Story
Our organization was founded on the principles of knowledge of self and self-worth. We believe that with these two pillars, we can begin to reshape how we see and treat one another—since it is often said that the way we treat others is a direct reflection of how we view ourselves.
The inception of BMIT in 1995 was born out of tragedy. Brother Will founded the organization after the devastating loss of his younger brother to gang violence. That painful reality continues to serve as the driving force behind our unwavering commitment to saving lives and uplifting our community.
As we work to transform how we view ourselves, we also transform our community—shifting it from a source of pain into a haven of hope, unity, and brotherhood/sisterhood.
Our Mission
BMIT is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the positive mental, social, and physical development of Black youth and adolescents. While our work is culturally specific, we remain committed to serving the broader community.
Our facility is intentionally designed to encourage daily attendance, foster meaningful social interaction, and strengthen relationships between youth, adolescents, and staff.
Recognizing the health and social disparities that African American youth continue to face, BMIT is committed to building a community that uplifts and guides young people in the areas of health, education, socialization, and personal development—creating opportunities for growth and success, particularly for BIPOC youth.
Our Values
We value all of the core elements of a balanced and fulfilling life. Family is of supreme importance here at BMIT, as the most important aspect of our mission is to repair the nuclear family within our community. We also place great importance on personal development, including education, health, and overall selfhood.
Together, these areas create a foundation for lasting growth and have a profound impact on the upward mobility and socioeconomic advancement of our people as a whole.
Meet The Team
Brother Will
Founder|COO
Brother Will, is the founder of Black Men In Training, He’s been serving the Portland community since the 1990s. With a successful career in sales, he is deeply passionate about mentoring youth and sharing his love for fitness and boxing, using both as tools to inspire discipline, confidence, and personal growth.
Favorite Quote:
"Go back home and join an organization. If you cannot find one, create one." - Minister Farrakhan, Million Man March, 1995 (BMIT Inception)
Brother Nolan
Executive Director
Brother Nolan, is an entrepreneur and mentor empowering young Black men in Portland. Having grown up in NE Portland and lived in the House of Umoja, as well as spent formative time abroad, he is committed to personal growth, academic success, and leadership development. He actively engages the community, providing guidance, support, and positive opportunities for the next generation.
Favorite Quote:
"If you want to change the future, we must start with the future"
Brother Ja'Marian
CPO - BMIT
Ja'Marian Malley grew up in Portland’s St. Johns neighborhood. With a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and over a decade of experience as a personal trainer, Ja'Marian has long been dedicated to empowering others through health, wellness, and community building.
His passion for mentorship began in college with Positive Attitude Adjusters, where he first worked with youth to instill confidence and resilience. That commitment deepened through his involvement with Melanated Mentors, creating spaces for young people of color to thrive and be guided by positive role models. Today, that journey continues with Black Men In Training (BMIT)...
Brother Sion (Seán)
CPO - BMIT STEAM|CIO
With his varied experience in many industries involving tech, Brother Sion has a wealth of knowledge and wisdom to share with those he encounters. Furthermore, his stringent belief that "incessant learning is as essential as air and water" demonstrates that technical knowledge is but a mere portion of what he has to offer the minds of our youth. As founder of BMIT's STEAM program, he vows to further the interest of youth whose interest align with STEAM's subject matter, and spark a newfound passion in those who are new to the world of applied technology.
Favorite Quote:
"Greatness is NOT a flex, it is our BIRTHRIGHT. Normalize showing up"
Brother Rickey
Resource Director
Rickey Walker is a retired U.S. Army veteran who proudly served 21 years, including Special Forces, but his greatest mission today is serving his community. Growing up without a father, Rickey knows the challenges young people face and the importance of having positive role models. He now runs his own armed security business while dedicating his time to mentoring through Black Men in Training (BMIT). With faith, discipline, and Rickey shows youth that no matter where they start, there is always hope for a brighter future built on respect, family, and purpose.
Brother Ryan
Director of Administration & Community Affairs
Brother Ryan is a native Portlander, entrepreneur, and community advocate who creates opportunities, builds connections, and inspires positive change. His natural leadership skills and knack for inspiring others make him a huge source for motivation within our organization.
Favorite Quote:
“Do not think in the direction in which you do not want to go”
Sister Michelle
Director - BWIT
Sister Michelle is a Certified Doula, Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC), and Maternal and Child Health Advocate dedicated to improving birth outcomes for minorities and women of color. As an Author and Inspirational Speaker, she uses her voice and expertise to uplift, educate, and empower families. She has a deep passion for nurturing the next generation of young Black women, instilling confidence, knowledge, and hope as they grow into leaders of their own destinies. As the Director of Black Women in Training (BWIT), she continues her mission of creating safer and healthier beginnings for mothers, infants, and young girls, ensuring they are supported, prepared, and celebrated every step of the way.
Favorite Quote:
"Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.” — Dr. Mae Jemison
Sister Sharita
Facilitator - BWIT
Sister Sharita is a devoted mother and Public Benefits Specialist, with over two years of experience at the Department of Social and Health Services. With a passion for helping others access critical resources and achieve stability, she brings both professional expertise and a heart for service to her work. She draws inspiration from her family and strives to lead by example, showing her children the power of perseverance and kindness. Volunteering in the mentorship program allows her to share her knowledge, uplift others, and grow alongside like-minded professionals.
Favorite Quote:
"Empowered women empower women,” believing that growth and success are multiplied when we lift each other up."