A connection that started it all
I met Rev. Shumake while facilitating a Radical Resilience workshop with the Richmond Outdoors Coalition. We connected instantly, even down to sharing the same name, Andre. From that moment, there was immediate alignment around serving young people.
That connection became the foundation for real work together.
From connection to collaboration
It led us to Nystrom Elementary School, where through the Mafanikio Program we began bringing mindfulness into the school environment alongside the Mafanikio Get Smart Formula, created by Rev. Shumake.
The Get Smart Formula is a simple but powerful framework designed to support student success in and out of the classroom.
Be focused. Go to class with a willing spirit to learn.
Pay attention to the teacher.
Follow instructions.
Simple. Clear. Effective.
Alongside this, students are also engaging in mindfulness practices that support focus, emotional awareness, and self-discipline.
Consistent presence, real impact
Through funding from the Richmond Outdoors Coalition, we have been able to connect with students twice a week for the entire school year. This is what access looks like: consistent presence, consistent care, and consistent investment in young people.
That consistency builds trust. Over time, students begin to slow down, pay attention, and apply these tools in real time, both in the classroom and in their daily interactions.
We introduce practices such as meditation, mindful movement, yoga, and mindful communication. Students also engage in reflection and learn practical tools for navigating stress, conflict, and distraction.
Why this work matters
When mindfulness and the Get Smart Formula come together, students begin to build stronger focus, emotional awareness, discipline, and self-belief. These are not abstract ideas. They show up in how students respond, communicate, and show up for learning.
Expanding the work
Together, this work is helping youth succeed in and out of the classroom.
We are now sharing these principles with youth across Oakland and Richmond, continuing to build spaces where young people can strengthen focus, emotional awareness, and personal responsibility in real time.
Gratitude
Deep gratitude to Rev. Shumake for creating the Mafanikio Get Smart Formula and for his partnership in this work. Gratitude as well to the Richmond Outdoors Coalition for creating the space for this collaboration to grow and for investing in consistent access for our youth.
