Malik Yoba has been a fixture in Hollywood for over three decades, captivating audiences with his versatile acting skills. However, his true passion lies in his philanthropic work and his commitment to empowering young people through real estate development. As the host of the 15th Annual Cristian Rivera Foundation Celebrity Gala, Yoba is dedicated to finding a cure for Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) and providing vital support to affected children and families.

Turning Tragedy into Purpose: Malik Yoba's Unwavering Commitment to the Cristian Rivera Foundation

A Lifelong Dedication to Giving Back

Malik Yoba's involvement with the Cristian Rivera Foundation is deeply personal. He has been moved by individuals who have transformed their own pain into a driving force for positive change. Yoba's background in the nonprofit world, particularly with organizations like the City Kids Foundation, has shaped his perspective and instilled in him a deep sense of purpose. For Yoba, the Cristian Rivera Foundation's mission to find a cure for DIPG and support affected families resonates profoundly, as he recognizes the power of turning tragedy into triumph.

Integrating Passions: Real Estate, Filmmaking, and Youth Empowerment

Yoba's commitment to the Cristian Rivera Foundation is just one facet of his multifaceted career. Through his company, Yoba Development LLC, he is also dedicated to educating young people on creating generational wealth through real estate and construction. This endeavor is a natural extension of Yoba's diverse interests, combining his expertise in filmmaking, his passion for real estate, and his desire to empower the next generation. By bringing these three elements together, Yoba has found a way to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people, both through his philanthropic work and his business ventures.

Spreading the Word: Documentaries and Curriculum Development

Yoba's efforts to educate young people about real estate development have taken on a tangible form. He has created a documentary series called "Real Estate Mix Tape," which follows seven young people of color on a journey through New York City, introducing them to the intricacies of the built environment. This documentary has become the foundation for the "I Build New York" pilot program, the first real estate development curriculum for high school students in the New York City Department of Education. Yoba's commitment to sharing his knowledge and experiences has the potential to inspire and empower a new generation of real estate professionals and community builders.

Reflecting on a Storied Career: From "Cool Runnings" to "New York Undercover"

Yoba's acting career has been marked by numerous memorable moments, but two stand out in particular. The first is his role in the beloved film "Cool Runnings," where he had the opportunity to fulfill a childhood dream of bobsledding and representing his country at the Olympics. The second is his groundbreaking work on the television series "New York Undercover," which featured young people of color in law enforcement roles, a representation that had rarely been seen on television before. Yoba takes pride in the impact these projects have had, both in terms of personal fulfillment and in shaping the landscape of representation in the entertainment industry.

Expanding Horizons: Yoba's Upcoming Projects and Ventures

As Yoba continues to navigate his multifaceted career, he is embarking on new and exciting ventures. He is launching a media investment platform that will have a significant impact on the real estate industry, particularly for people of color. This platform aims to facilitate connections, support, and collaboration among entrepreneurs and business owners, while also providing a platform to tell their stories. Additionally, Yoba is producing the third season of the Netflix series "Kings of Jo'Burg," which he shot in Cape Town, South Africa. With his diverse interests and unwavering commitment to making a difference, Yoba's future endeavors are sure to be equally impactful and inspiring.

Answering the Call: Supporting the Cristian Rivera Foundation

At the heart of Malik Yoba's work is his dedication to the Cristian Rivera Foundation. As a board member, he has witnessed firsthand the tireless efforts of the foundation's founder, John Rivera, to raise funds and find a cure for DIPG. Yoba is proud to be a part of this important cause and encourages others to get involved by donating or attending the foundation's events, such as the upcoming 15th Annual Cristian Rivera Foundation Celebrity Gala. Through his unwavering support and the collective efforts of the community, Yoba hopes to make a lasting difference in the lives of those affected by this devastating form of brain cancer.