Michael "Zaki" Smith is a force for social change, dedicated to uplifting young people and transforming communities since 2004. With a passion rooted in the mentorship and guidance he lacked in his own youth, Zaki has leveraged his skills as a barber to create meaningful connections, often mentoring young people right in his barber chair. His journey began with Team Revolution, a local organization empowering youth to step into leadership roles and discover their purpose. His early work with high school students at Canarsie High School and Erasmus Hall High School in Brooklyn focused on leadership development, equipping young people to become changemakers.

Zaki’s impact extends into the juvenile justice system, where he served as both a barber and mentor at Crossroads Juvenile Detention Center, offering guidance to young men affected by the criminal justice system. He also worked with students experiencing homelessness through the New York City Department of Education, providing stability and mentorship to youth in temporary housing.