Our LEADERSHIP.

  • A black and white portrait of a bald man with a beard, sitting and resting his chin on his hand, looking at the camera with a slight smile, against a plain wall background.

    Maleek Jackson, Founder

    Maleek Jackson is the visionary Founder of the Azzim Dukes Initiative, dedicated to empowering inner-city youth through education, mentorship, and community engagement. With a strong commitment to fostering positive change, Maleek has touched into his life experience and passion to create a supportive environment where young individuals can thrive and find their individualism.

  • Woman with shoulder-length hair in a sleeveless black top and skirt, standing outdoors against a brick wall, smiling, holding a small clutch bag.

    Dr. Sara Goldrick-rab, President

    DR. SARA GOLDRICK-RAB IS AN AWARD-WINNING EDUCATOR, AUTHOR, RESEARCHER, AND ACTIVIST.  NAMED “ONE OF THE TOP 50 PEOPLE SHAPING AMERICAN POLITICS” BY POLITICO MAGAZINE AND A CARNEGIE SCHOLAR, SHE IS DEEPLY INVESTED IN CHANGING THE ODDS FOR KIDS GROWING UP AMERICA’S POOREST LARGE CITY: PHILADELPHIA. 

  • A man with a beard sitting on a boxing gym platform, holding a thick battle rope, surrounded by boxing gloves, punching bags, and boxing equipment, in a boxing gym.

    Hanif Nelson, Founding Partner

    Hanif Nelson is a Founding Partner of the Azzim Dukes Initiative and a devoted father of four. With a deep-rooted commitment to community development and youth empowerment, Hanif has played a pivotal role in shaping the initiative's vision and mission. His passion for creating positive change is evident in his hands-on approach to fostering opportunities for inner-city youth. As a father, Hanif brings a personal understanding of the importance of nurturing young minds.

Our BOARD.

  • A middle-aged man with a grey beard and bald head standing with arms crossed in a boxing gym, with punching bags and people in the background.

    Bernard Hopkins Jr.

    Bernard Hopkins Jr. is a retired American professional boxer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest middleweight and light heavyweight champions in the history of the sport. Hopkins held multiple world championships in two weight classes, including the undisputed middleweight title and the lineal light heavyweight title. After retiring from boxing, he remains a prominent figure in the boxing community and the azzim dukes initiative.

  • Black and white photo of a man with short, graying hair in a white collared shirt, standing in a crowded social setting.

    mike solomonov

    Mike Solomonov is a celebrated Israeli chef and restaurateur, widely recognized for his influence in popularizing Israeli cuisine in the United States. He is best known for his restaurant Zahav in Philadelphia, which has earned numerous awards, including the James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant.

  • A man in a white dress shirt leaning on a railing inside a boxing or gymnasium venue with a boxing poster in the background.

    Joe Hand Jr.

    Joe Hand Jr. is a prominent figure in the sports and entertainment industry. He is the President of Joe Hand Promotions and has played a significant role in expanding the reach of boxing. His work has contributed to the growth and popularity of sports broadcasting, and the power of sport.

  • Will Cooper

  • A man wearing boxing gloves and athletic clothing stands in a boxing ring, preparing to spar or practice.

    Rahmi Halaby

    Rahmi Halaby is a multidisciplinary Creative Director and Designer from Philadelphia who is dedicated to using design as a tool for impact. As Executive Creative Director of Linden Ave Studio, he has led projects for brands like Nike, Puma, and Google, while also fostering creative communities. Rahmi is deeply committed to investing in the next generation of young Philadelphians, using creative arts and the sweet science of boxing as powerful tools for mentorship, discipline, and self-expression.

  • Chris McDonald

  • James Pachucki

    James Pachucki

    James Pachucki serves as President of M5 Supply - America & Philadelphia's #1 packaging company via Inc5000, Philly Fast 50 & Philadelphia 100. James has resided in Philly for 5 years where he found Maleek Jackson in 2020 and developed a passion for boxing and bridging the social gap between the corporate business world and community relations. Over this time period, James has been actively involved in sponsoring summer camp participants, donating necessary supplies, and highlighting the commonalities of bettering yourself mentally and physically while helping community engagement at all ages.

OUR COACHES AND MENTORS.