Nationwide — The Wilson Academy, a Black-owned College Prep School based in the Atlanta area known for its unique academic approach and consistently high-performing students, is making history again. The school will be hosting its first-ever Legacy Leaders Gala on March 23, 2023, at 7:30pm to celebrate community leaders and raise funds to support students like Sodiq Adeniyi, Isaac Machot Majok Gol, and James Turic Chol Gol; young men whose lives were transformed through education and basketball.
Here are several of the students’ personal stories:
Sodiq Adeniyi, born in Lagos, Nigeria, overcame tremendous personal challenges including the tragic loss of his mother. Sodiq secured an academic scholarship to The Wilson Academy, where he also excels on the basketball court. His story exemplifies the impact of education and mentorship on young lives.
Isaac Machot Majok Gol, 17 years old, from Rumbek, South Sudan, found a passion for basketball at a young age. With the support of his uncle, Isaac moved to the United States to escape poverty and violence, and pursue his dreams of a better life. He is currently a student at The Wilson Academy where he continues to develop his skills in the classroom and on the court.
James Turic Chol Gol, 13 years old, also from South Sudan, feels fortunate to have escaped the ills of civil war. Since coming to The Wilson Academy, James has made significant strides in both academics and athletics, thanks to the support of his teachers and coaches.
“The Legacy Gala is a unique opportunity for us to gather and celebrate community leaders, honor the accomplishments of our students and their families, and invest in establishing a legacy of excellence,” said Byron F. Wilson, Headmaster and Founder of The Wilson Academy. “Every year, our graduates earn millions of dollars in college scholarships, as we have fostered a proven path to academic success. But our students still need support.”
The gala will honor exceptional leaders and entrepreneurs who have demonstrated a commitment to community and creating lasting legacies, including:
Shareef Abdul-Malik: Founder of WeBuyBlack.com; he has pioneered a global movement that has become the largest outlet promoting Black-owned businesses.
Jhavaun and Maudelyne Green: Owners of Green Love Kitchen; they have designed innovative, vegan and healthy culinary experiences for underserved communities and beyond.
Mario Johnson: A visionary restauranteur and real estate investor from Metro Atlanta, GA, whose entrepreneurial spirit has opened doors for aspiring young entrepreneurs.
The Legacy Leaders Gala is an opportunity for everyone to play a vital role in shaping a legacy of excellence. Through generous donations and active participation, supporters can contribute to scholarships, resources, and opportunities to empower young minds like Sodiq, Isaac, and James, to reach their full potentials. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at TheWilsonAcademyGala.com
About
The Wilson Academy is an independent, coed K-12 school in Conyers, Georgia. Emphasizing critical thinking, exposure, and financial education, the academy’s mission is to provide an education that is valuable, adaptable, practical, and capable of empowering our students.
For media inquiries or to schedule an interview, please contact Sade Collins at s.collins@thewilsonacademystaff.org or 850-32205810.
