OUR TEAM

At Stronger Inc. & Empowerment, we are proud of our highly skilled professional team, committed to creating meaningful change in our community. They strive to equip individuals to strengthen their knowledge, skills, and resources to reach their potential.

Jason "Jay" Broadnax

Founder/ Executive Director

Jason "Jay" Broadnax is the visionary Founder and Executive Director of Stronger Inc. and Empowerment, a distinguished nonprofit dedicated to empowering at-risk youth and addressing gun violence and recidivism in Detroit. Growing up in a challenging environment, Jay discovered solace and inspiration in boxing, which ignited his determination and hope. However, tragedy struck when in 2016, he lost his mother, followed by the devastating loss of his son in 2021, both falling victim to the gun violence he strives to combat. Driven by an unwavering commitment to his community, Jay transformed his pain into purpose. He founded Stronger Inc. and Empowerment after maintaining a successful 9-year career with the City of Detroit, providing tangible solutions to urgent issues facing at-risk youth. Jay's story is a testament to his resilience and unwavering spirit. Jay's professional journey is as remarkable as his personal one. He is a distinguished graduate of Henry Ford High School, where he obtained his GED, and he further pursued his passion for knowledge by completing three semesters of Electrical Engineering at W.C.C.C.D. Jay has demonstrated tenacity and adaptability throughout his career, accumulating over 18 years of experience as a Class A Truck Driver. He has also earned certifications in various fields, including Industrial Construction Equipment, DOT and OSHA Regulations, Computer Information Technologies, and Brick and Block Masonry. Through Stronger Inc., Jason combines his life experiences and professional achievements to lead the fight against gun violence and empower at-risk youth. Join Jay in making a lasting impact and forging a brighter future.

Sylvester "Sly" Wright

Co-Founder/ Athletics Director

Meet Sylvester Wright, Co-founder and Athletic Director of Stronger Inc. Sylvester, a standout linebacker at MacKenzie High School, earned a scholarship to the University of Kansas, majoring in Physical Education. He later played for the Philadelphia Eagles and NFL Europe. For over 25 years, Sylvester mentored and coached at The Reggie MacKenzie Camp, leaving a lasting impact on young lives. As a visionary leader, he brings his expertise and passion to empower at-risk youth through sports. Sylvester's unwavering dedication and understanding of the transformative power of athletics shape Stronger Inc.'s mission. With his leadership, the organization provides opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and character building. Sylvester's commitment to creating a brighter future for at-risk youth through sports drives Stronger Inc.'s transformative programs.

April Broadnax

Secretary/ Treasurer

April Broadnax is the Secretary/Treasurer of Stronger Inc. and Empowerment. With over two decades of experience in the medical and customer service fields, April brings exceptional communication skills and a profound sense of empathy to her role. Beyond her professional expertise, April's passion for youth engagement is evident. As a talented singer and music enthusiast, she has invested countless hours connecting with young people in the metropolitan area, nurturing their talents and fueling their enthusiasm. April understands music's transformative power and uses it to help young individuals discover their potential. For April, family extends beyond blood relations to include the larger community of young people who shape the future. She is a steadfast mentor, providing guidance, support, and quality time to empower the next generation. With a steady hand and a warm heart, April is committed to creating a brighter tomorrow for all. As Secretary/Treasurer of Stronger Inc., April combines her wealth of experience, compassion, and dedication to making a lasting impact on the lives of at-risk youth. Her unwavering commitment to the organization's mission and her ability to connect with young individuals make her an invaluable asset in driving positive change and empowerment in the community.

Myka Herron

Project Manager

Myka "MK" Herron is the Project Manager of Stronger Inc. Myka holds a strong background and years of experience in Marketing, Communications and Project Management. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication Marketing with a concentration in General Business from Eastern Michigan University. MK is very passionate about working amongst the community in efforts to help youth become financially responsible, knowledgeable and prepared for adulthood and is excited to bring these resources to Stronger Inc.

Our Board of Directors

At Stronger Inc., we take pride in the strong and diverse backgrounds of our Board members, who bring their expertise to the organization. Our Board members are highly skilled professionals passionate about helping others and making a difference. We invite you to learn more about our Board and see how you can get involved with our mission.

Mark Williams

Mark Williams is a Product of the Detroit public school system, a proud HBCU alumnus (Texas Southern University) who has worked with at-risk youth for 23 years. It's been my privilege to contribute to helping to change the lives of our children in the City of Detroit.

Miles Spann

Miles Spann is the City Engagement Consulting Manager in Durham, North Carolina, with over 15 years of experience supporting, engaging, and helping communities unlock their potential. Born and raised in Detroit, he developed a passion for the underdog and a desire to help everyone succeed. He currently teaches City Departments how to engage residents better and more equitably. He spends his spare time offering creative consulting services building pathways to people’s dreams using photography, graphic design, audio engineering, and more.

Latesha Mathis

CEO of Hidden Treasure Billing and Credentialing LLC. Latesha's expertise lies in establishing strong relationships between healthcare providers and insurance companies while adeptly navigating complex payer rules and regulations. Through her company, Hidden Treasure Billing and Credentialing LLC, Latesha effectively eases the administrative burden for providers by managing patient eligibility, claims processing, and provider network operations. As a board member, she brings exceptional communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and a deep understanding of revenue cycle optimization. Latesha's extensive experience in system conversions and working with specialty physician offices equips her with valuable insights to enhance processes, drive growth, and optimize healthcare operations. Latesha's contributions are vital in shaping Stronger Inc.'s strategic direction and mission to empower at-risk youth and address community challenges. Through her exceptional leadership and expertise, Latesha continues to impact healthcare significantly.

Michael Coble

Our Board of Advisors

At Stronger Inc. & Empowerment, we are committed to inspiring and empowering individuals and communities. That's why we have assembled our talented and diverse Advisory Board made up of professional individuals from diverse backgrounds, who share our mission of building a better future.

Jason Cole

Executive Director Michigan Minority Contractors Assn EXPERIENCE: 10/08 – PRESENT Executive Director Michigan Minority Contractors Association formerly NAMC Real Estate Investor Association Detroit Chapter Facilitator National Association Minority Consulting Engineers Detroit Chapter Detroit Association of Planners National Association Black Women in Construction Detroit Chapter Collaborator National Organization Minority Architects Detroit Chapter Detroit Association of Realtors Member National Association Black Hotel Owners Operators Development 01/17-PRESENT Cole Development Group Development Partner with Basco Development in a 22room Boutique Hotel in Downtown Detroit. 01/15-PRESENT Funding Roots Crowd Capital platform that was formed to help Detroiters finance and redevelop Detroit through real estate and franchise opportunities (2012 Jobs Act and 2016Mile Act) 01/08 – PRESENT Commercial Financial Specialist LLC Vice President Develop and implement the business and strategic marketing plan for this existing Commercial Real Estate Lender. 07/05 – PRESENT Barno Cole Land Development Group LLC Vice President Covering the areas of; Human Resources, Financial, Marketing and Legal concern. 09/88 – 12/08 Cole Financial Services, Inc. Vice President Duties include; Marketing and Sales, Human Resources support, and Accounting and Finance lead for this Human Capital recruitment, retainment and placement firm. 06/98 – 09/98 U.S. Small Business Administration Economic Development Specialist Developed and implemented a plan for increasing the rate or AfricanAmerican Loan Initiation in the SBA 7a lending program. The goal was to increase it by 300%.