Over the last ten years, Malik Simmonds has championed for the Alpha G.E.N.T.S, a program that mentors New York’s most at-risk African-American and Latino teen boys. G.E.N.T.S, which is an acronym for “Gaining Essential Networking Tools for Success” is equipping the young men with critical life skills for a promising future.
At Viacom’s Town Hall meeting, Malik accepted a check for a $10,000 award on behalf of the Kappa Xi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. for his work with the Alpha G.E.N.T.S. Viacom, where he is employed as the director of human resources for Nickelodeon reward its employees for their civic involvement in the community. Malik was one of two staff members who took top honors with the ‘Viacommunity Award’ in December.
It came as quite a surprise to Malik when he learned that seven of his colleagues at Viacom nominated him for the $10,000 prize. Year after year, his colleagues have noticed him mentor the young men that come to Malik’s office at Nickelodeon.
His chapter of the fraternity, fondly known in New York City as the “Wall Street Alphas” over the years have raised thousands of dollars for scholarships, funded annual college tours, and spent countless hours mentoring the teens. The Alpha G.E.N.T.S. mentors are comprised of the chapters’ membership which boasts exceptional careers in diverse professions in medicine, education, finance, and the arts. The program hosts sessions on a vast array of topics that include: financial management, college prep, sex education, and more.
In addition to volunteering his time with the teens, every year for five years he has donated $1,000, which were also matched by Viacom. Although Malik has transitioned into a less visible role in the last three years, he still remains highly active with the G.E.N.T.S. He’s been working with Amir Figueroa, the current Director of Educational Activities (a role he formerly held) for Kappa Xi Lambda to empower him to take the program to higher heights.
Urban Philanthropist 