In loving memory of
Azzim Dukes,
for the futures of all  Philadelphia kids

Azzim as a young boy

“Azzim Dukes was my little brother. When he was 17, he was fatally shot while I was serving 10 years in prison.

Two of my older brothers were also shot and killed.”

Three brothers, all lost to gun violence

L to R: Maleek’s brothers, Pudd, Darrell, and Azzim

Like Maleek, many young people in Philly face a rough start that undermines their potential.  Growing up in a family challenged by poverty, he lost three brothers to gun violence, including Azzim Dukes, another graduate of Stanton who died at just 17. Midway through high school, Maleek was incarcerated, further reducing the chances that he would even reach adulthood. 

But mentors and boxing changed all of that. Now an indisputable champion, Maleek is making sure that every young person has someone in their corner.

“I’ve seen every form of a broken home that a kid can experience. If we don’t act, most kids from these homes will end up in circumstances like Azzim.”

- Maleek Jackson, ADI Founder