Mswati Hanks

The one word I would use to describe myself is PASSIONATE. I’m an extremely dedicated, hard working person that’s passionate about making my community a better, more equitable place, for all those in it. Over the last 20+ years, I’ve put all of my energy and life-force into mentoring, motivating, and inspiring young people. My sole focus is, and has been, to prevent as many men and women of color from entering the criminal legal system; And helping those already in the system to get out, and stay out. As an African-American male, and the parent of two Afro-Latino men, both in their 20’s, I understand the many difficulties and pitfalls that our young people of color face growing up in an urban environment. Through education, music, poetry, sports, film, theatre, and even the outdoors, I’ve been able to expose these individuals to a world that many of them had no idea existed, or was even accessible. I truly believe that EDUCATION is the great equalizer when it comes to lifting one out of poverty, or any situation for that matter; And hopefully through my work, the legacy I leave behind will be one of impact and inspiration.

• Well versed in case management software EHANA and ETO
• ARC certified
• PFA (psychological first aid) certified
• BEST Certified Youth Worker
• Certified Recovery Coach for substance use

• Co-created a monthly Race Dialogue series in Charlestown, MA in 2020 (that’s still running) with State Senator Lydia Edwards that has had profound impact on changing many of the long-held prejudices in the Charlestown community.
• Created a 10-week Group/Program (currently under contract with Brookline High School and in talks with more schools) for young men of color that teaches how to navigate racism within systems, toxic masculinity, physical and mental health, healthy relationships, career and finance, substance misuse, and more.
• Built a 'sister' youth-program to my high-school program, for middle-school-aged young people that live in Charlestown, to combat the mental health decline and isolation in this age group post-covid; And to give these young people a connection to a positive environment and pro-social activities at a very pivotal point in their development.

Upon Request