About Us
Welcome to Lightbearers Initiative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to guiding teens through essential business education and literacy skills. Our mission is to equip young men with the tools they need to thrive in today's world while instilling the values and teachings of Christ. Through interactive programs, mentorship, and community support, we aim to empower the next generation to become responsible leaders and compassionate individuals. Join us in our journey to light the path for teens as they grow in knowledge and faith.
“No one lights a lamp and hides it in a clay jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they put it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light. Luke 8:16
Mission Statement
Our mission is to educate and inspire young men through comprehensive programs that focus on business practices and literacy, with a heightened intensity around biblical teachings. We strive to create a nurturing, and safe, environment where young men can learn, grow, and be discipled in the ways of Christ, fostering both personal and spiritual development.
Our Vision
Our vision is to see a generation of empowered men who are not only skilled in business and reading/writing but also grounded in their faith. We envision a community where each participant feels valued, supported, and equipped to pursue their dreams while positively impacting those around them.
Board President and Founder :
Daniel Reynolds
Daniel Reynolds is a mentor, creator, and community-driven leader with a heart for helping the next generation discover purpose, identity, and direction.
With over a decade of experience in leadership and training, Daniel has spent years developing people—not just in skill, but in confidence, discipline, and mindset. His passion has always centered around one thing: helping others grow into who they were created to be.
In 2018, everything became personal.
After the birth of his first son, Grayson, Daniel faced one of the most difficult seasons of his life during Grayson’s battle with congenital heart disease. In that season of uncertainty, pressure, and fear, Daniel experienced a shift in perspective that would shape everything moving forward. What began as a moment of struggle became the foundation for a calling—to build something that could impact lives far beyond his own.
That calling became Lightbearers Initiative.
Lightbearers Initiative exists to reach teens—especially those who feel overlooked, disconnected, or without direction—and provide them with something many have never had: a safe place, a strong foundation, and a clear sense of purpose.
Through mentorship, education in business and literacy, and intentional discipleship, Daniel’s vision is to equip young people not just with knowledge, but with identity. Not just with skills, but with truth. Not just with opportunity, but with purpose rooted in Christ.
As both a father and a builder, Daniel approaches this mission with urgency and care—believing that when young people are given the right environment, guidance, and truth, they don’t just survive… they rise.
His message is simple, but powerful:
Be the light.
Meet the Board
We are proud to introduce our dedicated board members who bring a wealth of experience and passion to our nonprofit organization. Each member plays a vital role in guiding our mission and ensuring we make a meaningful impact in the community. Together, they share a commitment to fostering growth, innovation, and positive change. We are excited to have their leadership as we continue our journey toward making a difference.
Board Chair
Antione Cartez, Ed. S
Antione Cartez, Ed.S., is an educator, entrepreneur, and founder of CANDU Education Partners. As Board President, he focuses on governance, growth, and community impact.
Board Vice-Chair
Jenika Denery
Jenika Denery is a writer with a background in business, ministry, and organizational development. Passionate about Jesus, delicious food, and community, her work focuses on building environments where people can be human and grow with purpose. She loves a great book, a plush couch, and spending time with her family.
Board Treasurer
Deron Johnson
Deron has a B.S. Degree in Computer Engineering and a M.S. in Information Science & Technology with a Graduate's Certificate in Business Analytics & Data Science. Currently, he is a Product Manager with Equifax Workforce Solutions driving success for our most differentiated and valuable data asset, The Work Number. He is also a Financial Coach and Wealth Advocate. Previously he's led Boeing's IT Training Systems Team for the P-8 Poseidon Program as their Product Owner and is an alumni of Boeing's Leadership Next (LX) Program. Beyond just his career, he engages in Financial Literacy and Bilingual Studies in his free time. He loves to help inspire others and strives to promote individuals to reach the best version of themselves. Ultimately Deron hopes to be a benefit to society as a part of his legacy.
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Board Expert Director
Matinah White, M.Ed., PLPC
Matinah is a St. Louis native and mental health professional with more than six years of experience supporting individuals and families through behavioral health services, crisis intervention, and personal growth. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Southeast Missouri State University and a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Missouri–St. Louis. Currently, Matinah serves as a therapist in trauma recovery for children and adolescents ages 3–18, helping young people build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, and overcome life’s challenges. Her professional background includes case management, crisis response, care coordination, and program leadership. As a board member, she is committed to empowering youth through mentorship, skill development, and meaningful community engagement, creating opportunities for long-term success and personal growth.
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Board Secretary
Genell Reynolds
Genell Reynolds is a passionate community advocate who wants to see the next generation thrive. The St. Louis native is a boy mom who has seen the impact literacy and intentional fostering can have on a child directly. Genell will be keeping the board on track and helping Light Bearers reach its full potential. She has led multiple teams and her organizational skills will be vital. My why: '“Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.”” Matthew 9:37-38 NKJV