Stephon Baines is a youth development leader, mentor, and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience running mentorship and social service–based programs across New York City. He is the founder of Young Executives Enterprise, a multi-service organization providing youth mentorship, after-school etiquette programming, CPR and emergency preparedness training, and financial empowerment services.

His work is informed by lived experience, professional training, and years of leadership in foster care, group home settings, and community-based programs.

Early Life and Lived Experience

Stephon Baines’ early life included direct experience within the foster care system, an experience that deeply shaped his understanding of youth development, stability, and advocacy. Navigating foster care environments exposed him to the emotional and systemic challenges faced by children removed from their homes.

These experiences became a turning point rather than a limitation. Stephon developed resilience, accountability, and a commitment to ensuring that young people receive consistent mentorship, strong communication, and access to at-home-based services whenever possible.