Melvin Hayes is the founder and executive director of UpWorld Inc. Having founded other similar programs such as The Global Men’s Leadership at a University, and also The King's Men’s Initiative which is catering to male students. Mr. Hayes designed and implemented community service opportunities, mentoring, academic support, career development, and workshops that promote academic, social and personal success. Throughout his career he has developed highly successful and award winning leadership education, community engagement, cultural enrichment, business exploration and leadership development initiatives in Milwaukee, Michigan and Chicago.