About Us

About Skillsport and the people behind skillsport

About the company

How we started and what we do.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created the largest disruption of education systems in history, affecting nearly 1.6 billion learners in more than 190 countries and all continents. Closures of schools and other learning spaces have impacted 94 percent of the world’s student population, up to 99 percent in low and lower-middle income countries (UNESCO, 2020). 

SkillSport  is an empowerment program that aims to help children develop the skills, confidence, and resources they need to take control of their own lives and make informed decisions. The program provides a safe, nurturing environment that fosters growth, resilience, and stability, while collaborating with various organizations to create brighter futures addressing learning losses and preventing dropouts, particularly of marginalized groups, and offer skills for college and career readiness programs.  

Mission and Vision

Mission & Vision of the company

Our Mission

To build trust and rapport with children, their families, and the community by fostering a safe and supportive environment. We empower skill development through workshops and activities that enhance life skills like communication, problem solving, and emotional regulation. We also provide mentorship by pairing children with dedicated mentors, while offering education support to ensure their enrollment in suitable programs and access to essential academic assistance

Our Vision

To prevent student dropout, hopelessness, homelessness, crime, and violence by providing comprehensive support, resources, mentoring, coaching, and fostering long-term planning and sustainability opportunities encompassing financial stability and career aspirations. We prioritize physical and mental well-being as students transition into adulthood

Our Leadership

Our Founder/CEO

Dr. Martin

A native of Philadelphia, PA, Dr. Martin received her Diploma from Northeast High School, Bachelor of Science from Cheyney University, Master of Education from Cheyney University, and Doctor of Educational Leadership and Innovation from Wilmington University. Prior to entering the field of education, Dr. Martin achieved the great accomplishment of a Professional Women’s Basketball Player. Dr. Martin met and exceeded all expectations while playing professional basketball. Outside of her love of basketball, she has become well known for her thoughtful vision in education, innovation, prison reform, restorative services, and administration. Dr. Martin has observed teaching methods and examined learning materials to evaluate and standardize curricula and teaching techniques, to determine areas needing improvement and implementing strategies to improve teaching and learning. An expert on various education issues, Dr. Martin is well versed in all aspects of education access and success; equitable reform of education; student learning and outcomes, particularly for low-income, racial/ethnic minorities, and underrepresented populations; federal policy and trends; college readiness and preparation; and educational leadership, innovation, and management. Dr. Martin will continue to make strides and efforts to change students' lives one day at a time.

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Core Values

Our Core values

SkillSport core values provide a clear framework for decision-making, fostering trust, and ensuring consistency. They guide behavior, inspire stakeholders, and create a unified vision. SkillSport core values ensure the mission aligns with the diverse needs and promotes lasting positive impact.

  1. Empowerment: Equip students and communities with the tools, skills, and confidence needed to succeed.
  2. Inclusivity: Ensure that all programs and services are accessible to everyone, regardless of background, ability, or socioeconomic status.
  3. Integrity: Maintain the highest standards of honesty and ethical behavior in all actions and decisions.
  4. Collaboration: Foster partnerships and teamwork within the organization and with external stakeholders to achieve common goals.
  5. Innovation: Encourage creativity and embrace new ideas to continually improve programs and services.
  6. Respect: Value and respect the diversity of individuals and their unique contributions to the community.
  7. Commitment: Demonstrate a strong dedication to the mission and goals of the organization, and to the people served.
  8. Sustainability: Promote practices that ensure long-term positive impacts on students, communities, and the environment.
  9. Excellence: Strive for the highest quality in all programs, services, and operations.
  10. Community Engagement: Actively involve and engage the community in the development and delivery of programs and services.