Urban Golf Weekend and Brainstorm Miami have launched a new youth-focused initiative aimed at expanding access, mentorship and life skills through sport, beginning with a golf clinic for South Florida students.
The program, titled “Links to Leadership: Pathways and Dreams on the Green,” was hosted in collaboration with 100 Black Men of South Florida and brought together student-athletes and high-achieving students from Booker T. Washington Senior High School for an interactive weekend experience.
The event introduced participants to the fundamentals of golf during a one-hour clinic, followed by a working lunch centered on financial literacy and long-term planning.
Certified Financial Planner and Wealth Management Advisor Stan Leconte, a member of 100 Black Men of South Florida, led a session on wealth building, financial management and economic empowerment.
Also in attendance were Booker T. Washington Principal Anthony E. Simons, along with mentors Ron Butler and Alex Garcia, who provided guidance on preparing for life beyond high school.
“This initiative is about exposure and access,” said Woody Remy, Founder of Brainstorm Miami and Co-Founder of Urban Golf Weekend. “Golf is more than a sport; it’s a gateway to opportunity, relationships, and life skills that many of these students might not otherwise encounter. We’re intentional about creating spaces where young people can envision new possibilities for themselves.”
“As educators, our goal is to equip students not only for graduation but for life,” said Simons. Experiences like Links to Leadership extend learning beyond the classroom, offering students access to diverse environments, expectations, and possibilities. When they step onto a golf course to discuss financial literacy and leadership, they begin to see themselves as scholars, professionals, and emerging leaders. That mindset shift marks the start of genuine transformation. At the Historic Booker T Washington Sr High School, we strive to foster an environment where students can expand their horizons.
“This is about exposure, mentorship, and helping young people realize they belong in every room they aspire to enter, on the course and beyond,” said Butler, a member of the 100 Black Men of South Florida. “Programs like Links to Leadership are critical because they meet students at the intersection of potential and opportunity, providing access to the spaces, networks, and knowledge that can shape their futures.”
Clifton Addison, Founder of Urban Golf Weekend, emphasized the broader vision behind the partnership. “Urban Golf Weekend was built on the idea of bringing culture and community to the game of golf. With Links to Leadership, we’re extending that mission to the next generation by creating meaningful experiences that inspire confidence, open doors, and show these students they belong in every room, including on the green.”
Organizers say the clinic marks the first in a planned series of workshops designed to empower youth through sport, mentorship and education.
Momentum is already building, with Miami Central Senior High School and Miami Northwestern Senior High School set to join the initiative.
The next clinic, scheduled for this summer, is expected to bring together approximately 30 students from Booker T. Washington, Miami Central and Miami Northwestern for another day of learning, connection and personal development.
