Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevin.
Hi Kevin, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up in Southeast Washington, D.C., life was anything but easy for me. Poverty was a constant shadow, and losing my mother at the age of 17 left a void that no teenager should have to endure. Without my mother’s guidance, I found myself navigating life’s toughest lessons alone, making mistakes that eventually led to spending most of my teenage years and twenties going back and forth to jail.
But what could have been the end of my story became just the beginning. During my last incarceration, I was facing a 17 year prison sentence, but by the grace of GOD. I only ended up serving an 8 year sentence.
During this time I found purpose in an unexpected place—teaching a prison program that would later become the foundation of my life’s work. In those prison walls, I began shaping the structure for what is now Triumphant Leaders Youth Mentoring and Outreach Organization, an initiative dedicated to helping at-risk youth, adults, returning citizens, and families through therapeutic mentoring, behavioral health counseling, and therapeutic youth sports programs.
While incarcerated, I refused to let my circumstances define me. Instead of succumbing to the system, I immersed myself in the study of psychology, gaining a deep understanding of human behavior and the tools needed to help others overcome adversity. Determined to turn my knowledge into action. I came home and pursued higher education, earning an associate’s degree from the University of the District of Columbia. This achievement was more than just a diploma—it was proof that resilience, education, and purpose could transform a life once defined by struggle into one dedicated to uplifting others.
After years of making an impact in Washington, D.C., I felt the need to expand both my services and myself as a grown man now. I made the bold decision to move to Houston, Texas, where I am currently establishing a youth community outreach, behavioral health counseling, and therapy clinic. My mission? To reach communities most affected by gun violence, poverty, and lack of support, offering them the guidance and resources I once needed myself.
With family already in Texas, I saw an opportunity to build something even greater—a family-oriented organization that doesn’t just provide services but fosters a true sense of belonging. Triumphant Leaders is more than an organization; it’s a second chance for those who feel forgotten, a lifeline for at-risk youth who need direction, and a beacon of hope for families striving for a better life.
Through mentorship, therapeutic youth sports, and behavioral health counseling. I plan to continue breaking cycles, reshaping lives, and prove that no matter where you start or where you’re from. Your journey can lead to something greater. From the streets of D.C. to the heart of Houston, my story is a testament to resilience, redemption, and the power of giving back.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
So far there has not really been any struggles. Just going through the motions of making life decisions that involves making adjustments in my life and career. Something I’ve been doing my entire life, so I’m ready for this journey that God has lead me to…
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Triumphant Leaders Youth Mentoring & Community Outreach ?
I am an undergraduate studying psychology. I am the Founder and CEO of Triumphant Leaders Youth Mentoring & Community Outreach. I work with at-risk youth, returning citizens, and families helping them overcome life challenges and adversity. What sets me apart from others in my line of work is the commitment, dedication, and passion I have working with needy families. This is a field that everyone cannot be successful in, so the fact that I come from nothing, turned a prison sentence to a life career of helping humans overcome adversity, and then travel thousands of miles in the pursuit to save human lives across the country. Now, that’s Triumph! That’s what sets me apart from others…
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Donations is always a great way to support any non profit organization mission. One of the biggest challenges I can say running an organization is funding. There are many sleepless nights trying to figure out how to keep programs going or how you’re going to fund your next community event, so support is important!
I look forward to working with schools, community centers, and other organizations throughout Houston, Texas that shares the same vision as me in efforts to save human lives right here in Houston, Texas.
Anyone looking to collaborate with me can contact me by visiting my website at www.triumphantleadersmentoring.org
or by email at kcannaday@triumphantleadersmentoring.org
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.triumphantleadersmentoring.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/triumphant_therapeutic_mentor
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15hqHmD9U1/
