Fighter Series: Derek Brown
Who is Derek Brown?
Derek Brown founded Boxing Out Negativity, originally known as the North Lawndale Boxing League, in 2009 with a mission to empower at-risk youth to realize the best within themselves in a safe and supportive environment. Coach Brown knows the true hardships of growing up on Chicago’s Westside, after joining a gang at just thirteen years old and bouncing back and forth between the streets and jail for the majority of his youth.
Since then Coach Brown has gone on to teach and empower more than 500 youth and become one of the most inspirational people we have ever met. His vision to see “a world where every child is empowered to realize the best within themselves” is one he truly chases day in and day out.
What is Boxing Out Negativity?
Boxing Out Negativity’s mission is to bring boxing to youth who might not have the opportunity to participate without people like Coach Brown. The classes taught range from an introduction to boxing all the way up to training to compete at the highest level possible. The mission remains the same with Boxing Out Negativity regardless of the skill level, however, to empower the youth of the community through boxing. The three main anti-violence components are youth boxing, street outreach, and community anti-violence events.
What is Derek Brown Currently Fighting For?
For Derek, helping build up the community he used to tear down is the goal. He's fighting to empower at-risk youth to realize the best within themselves in a safe and supportive environment
Keep fighting for it, Derek.
