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 and creating spaces where they can grow, reflect, and succeed.
That connection did not stay a conversation. It became the foundation for meaningful work together.
From connection to collaboration
That moment 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.
What makes this collaboration unique is the integration of two approaches. The Get Smart Formula provides clear and actionable expectations for student success, while mindfulness gives students the tools to practice those expectations in real time.
The Mafanikio Get Smart Formula is simple and direct:
Be focused. Go to class with a willing spirit to learn.
Pay attention to the teacher.
Follow instructions.
Simple. Clear. Effective.
When paired with mindfulness, these principles move beyond instruction and become daily habits.
Consistent presence, real access
Through funding from the Richmond Outdoors Coalition, we have been able to connect with students twice a week for the entire school year. This level of consistency is critical.
This is what access looks like.
Consistent presence.
Consistent care.
Consistent investment in young people.
With that consistency, trust begins to build. Students start to feel comfortable showing up as themselves. They begin to engage more openly, participate more fully, and apply what they are learning beyond the session.
What students are experiencing
Through our Mindfulness for Youth Program, students are introduced to meditation, mindful movement, yoga, and mindful communication. Each session creates space for students to slow down, reflect, and build awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
We see students practicing breathing techniques when they feel overwhelmed. We see them pause before reacting. We hear them use more intentional language with their peers and teachers.
These are small shifts, but over time they become meaningful and lasting changes.
Students are not just being told how to succeed. They are learning how to regulate themselves, focus their attention, and show up with intention.
Why this work matters
When mindfulness and the Get Smart Formula come together, students begin to build focus, emotional awareness, discipline, and self belief.
These are not abstract ideas. They show up in real ways:
Students staying engaged longer in class
Students listening more closely
Students responding instead of reacting
Students beginning to believe in their ability to succeed
This is the foundation for both academic and personal growth.
Expanding the work
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 create spaces where young people can strengthen focus, emotional awareness, and personal responsibility in real time.
As we expand, the goal remains the same. Provide consistent, high quality experiences that give young people the tools they need to navigate school, relationships, and life.
Gratitude
Deep gratitude to Rev. Shumake for creating the Mafanikio Get Smart Formula and for his partnership in this work. His vision continues to guide and ground what we are building.
Appreciation as well to the Richmond Outdoors Coalition for creating the conditions for this collaboration and for investing in consistent access for our youth.
This work is possible because of that support.
