Maryam Muwwakkil
Board President
maryam@starinitiatives.org
Maryam Muwwakkil, the visionary founder of S.T.A.R. Initiatives, now serves as the organization’s dedicated Board President. Her inspiring journey is a testament to her passion for community empowerment and holistic youth development.
A native of Jamaica, Queens, Maryam has always understood the challenges faced by underserved communities. Growing up in these very neighborhoods, she personally experienced the lack of resources and support. This first-hand experience ignited her unwavering commitment to uplift these communities, and this commitment remains at the heart of her work as the Board President of S.T.A.R. Initiatives.
Over the years, Maryam’s journey has been characterized by diverse experiences, ranging from entrepreneurship and real estate to hospitality and event management. This rich tapestry of life experiences has instilled in her a deep appreciation for the complexities of life and the varied needs of the individuals she is determined to serve.
As Board President, Maryam’s primary focus is on ensuring that S.T.A.R. Initiatives continues to empower youth through holistic growth and development. Her vision is simple yet profound: every child is unique, with their own individual learning style and distinct needs. This belief is at the core of S.T.A.R. Initiatives, where a one-size-fits-all approach to education is discarded in favor of customized, individualized paths to excellence.
Under her leadership, S.T.A.R. Initiatives has developed an array of programs and curriculums that go beyond traditional academics. The organization is committed to fostering confidence and empowerment in young minds, celebrating the unique potential of every student. The mission of S.T.A.R. Initiatives, under her guidance, is to illuminate pathways of opportunity and inspire the next generation to achieve their full potential.
As both Board President and Founder, Maryam Muwwakkil remains deeply committed to her vision of transforming lives and communities through education, mentorship, and comprehensive youth development.
Kenneth Embrack
Board Secretery
kennethembrack@starinitiatives.org
Kenneth Embrack brings over 25 years of experience as a highly skilled general contractor to his role as Board Secretery at S.T.A.R. Initiatives. His extensive expertise in the construction industry has made him a valuable asset to our organization. Kenneth's passion for our mission and his commitment to empowering youth shine brightly in his dedication to our cause. With a strong foundation in construction and real estate, Kenneth plays a pivotal role in helping S.T.A.R. Initiatives find and develop local spaces for our transformative programs. From drafting plans to executing renovations, he ensures that our physical environment reflects our commitment to providing the best resources for our youth. Kenneth's passion for our mission goes beyond the physical aspects. He believes in creating a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances. His dedication to our cause shines through his tireless work as Board Secretery, guiding our organization toward a brighter tomorrow. With Kenneth Embrack as our Board Secretery we're not only building structures; we're building dreams and futures. You can connect with Kenneth at (Kenneth at starinitiatives.com) to learn more about his invaluable contributions to our mission.
John Wallace
Board Treasurer
johnwallace@starinitiatives.org
John Wallace brings an illustrious basketball legacy and a heart dedicated to community service to his role as Board Treasurer for S.T.A.R. Initiatives. A standout player at Syracuse University from 1992 to 1996, John's exceptional talent led him to be drafted by the New York Knicks in 1996, where he played seven seasons in the NBA. However, his contributions to our community stretch far beyond the basketball court. For over 13 years, John has been a steadfast advocate for change and growth as a member of the New York Knicks organization. His multifaceted involvement includes community engagement, hosting TV and radio shows, and partnering with organizations that uplift our youth. One such organization close to John's heart is the Heavenly Productions Foundation, where he serves on the board. Through this nonprofit, John passionately supports providing backpacks and essential supplies to children in underserved neighborhoods, helping to ensure they have the tools they need to succeed. John's influence doesn't stop there. He has directly impacted the lives of over 200,000 children through camps, clinics, and mentoring programs. His commitment to education, empowerment, and holistic youth development aligns seamlessly with the core values of S.T.A.R. Initiatives. As Board Treasurer, John Wallace leads our organization with an unwavering dedication to fostering positive change in our communities. His experience, both on and off the court, makes him an invaluable asset, and his heart for the youth drives our mission forward. In his role as Board Treasurer, John continues to embody the spirit of leadership, community, and mentorship. His presence amplifies our mission to empower youth and create a brighter future. Together with John's guidance, we look forward to making a lasting difference in the lives of countless young individuals.
