BOARD OF DIRECTORS
RAQUEL HARRIS,
FOUNDER AND PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Raquel Harris is a highly accomplished individual who currently serves as the Founder and Program Director. With over a decade of experience as a martial arts instructor, Raquel has helped countless individuals achieve their fitness and wellness goals through personal training, boutique group classes, fitness retreats, self-defense seminars, corporate workshops, and on-camera workouts. Prior to assuming this role, Raquel was a world kickboxing champion and authored the cookbook, "Fueling Your Fight," which promotes healthy eating habits for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
In addition to her work at Ring of Hope, Raquel is also a talented screenplay writer. Her passion for storytelling and dedication to empowering youth through mentorship and sports has been the driving force behind her success in both her career and the non-profit sector.
With her unique blend of athleticism, creativity, and leadership skills, Raquel has made a significant impact in the lives of countless young people around the world. Through her work at Ring of Hope, she continues to inspire and empower the next generation of champions.
JENNIFER CHIENG,
TREASURER
Jennifer Chieng is the Treasurer of our organization. With her extensive background in finance and her passion for athletics, she brings a unique perspective to our team. Jennifer holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics, where she honed her analytical and problem-solving skills.
Jennifer's athletic achievements are equally impressive. She is a professional fighter, 2016 Olympian, and Flag Bearer for her country. Her determination and dedication to her sport translate seamlessly into her work as our Treasurer, where she is dedicated to implementing cost-saving measures to optimize our financial resources.
Prior to joining our team, Jennifer worked on Wall Street as a finance professional. She gained invaluable experience in financial analysis, risk management, and strategic planning, which she now uses to guide our organization. With her expertise and commitment, we are confident that we will continue to grow and make a positive impact in our community.
BRIAN KEMSLEY,
DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
Brian Kemsley is the Director of International Relations for Ring of Hope, a Muay Thai fighter with a passion for exploring the world. Brian's travels have taken him to over 58 countries, where he immerses himself in diverse training environments, absorbing knowledge and techniques to share as a coach. His extensive experiences and accumulated wisdom have transformed him into a formidable opponent in the ring, known for his elusive footwork, cunning setups, and exceptional defensive skills.
Brian has fought in Thailand, honing his skills in the birthplace of Muay Thai. Fluent in three languages, he is driven by a deep passion for cultural languages, fostering connections and understanding across borders. Beyond his achievements in the martial arts world, Brian is a hero in his community. He once saved a woman from an attack by utilizing his martial arts skills, demonstrating his dedication not only to his craft but also to the safety and well-being of others. Brian's commitment to both his martial arts journey and his community makes him a truly remarkable individual. In addition to his coaching endeavors, Brian coaches both amateur and professional fighters, sharing his expertise and passion for Muay Thai with the next generation of athletes.
COURTNEY FERGUSON
DIRECTOR OF GROWTH AND EXPANSION
Courtney Ferguson is the Director of Growth and Expansion at Ring of Hope. Raised in an inner-city neighborhood by a single parent, Courtney intimately understands the transformative power of sports in the lives of young people.
Courtney graduated from Temple University with a degree in African American Studies, fueling his passion for advocacy and community work. His firsthand experience growing up in an environment with limited extracurricular opportunities has driven his commitment to implementing programs that engage and inspire students beyond the traditional classroom setting.
His extensive background in martial arts and film, combined with his deep understanding of the challenges faced by inner-city youth, uniquely positions him to spearhead initiatives that promote growth and expansion at Ring of Hope.
JESSICA QUIROZ
DIRECTOR OF ATHLETE RELATIONS
Jessica Quiroz is the Director of Athlete Relations at Ring of Hope, bringing a lifetime of athletic experience and a diverse professional background to the organization. With a Bachelor's degree in Sign Language and a career in middle school education within the Department of Education, Jessica combines her academic expertise with a profound commitment to supporting athletes.
Jessica has been immersed in sports from a young age, starting with gymnastics and later transitioning to boxing. Her journey as an amateur fighter was complemented by her roles in the media space, where she excelled in sports photography and journalism. These experiences connected her with various brands, and Jessica began helping fellow athletes secure sponsorships. Her unique approach to athlete sponsorship led to opportunities to manage both amateur and professional athletes.
Certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), Jessica has also worked extensively as a sports coach for youth, focusing on enhancing athletic performance. Her coaching experience, has given her a keen eye for identifying talent and potential in the management space.
As the Director of Athlete Relations, Jessica will leverage her extensive skills and experience to support and develop athletes in the Sports Assistance Fund Program (SAFP), helping athletes access the resources they need to succeed. Jessica's dedication to empowering young athletes and her multifaceted background make her an invaluable asset to the organization.
COACHES
At Ring of Hope, our coaches are the spirit of our programs, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to guide and inspire our participants. Each of our coaches is a highly accomplished fighter in their own right, with a deep understanding of the sport and a passion for mentoring. They hold certifications from USA Boxing and Safesport, ensuring that they possess the knowledge to train our participants safely and effectively. Selected for their exceptional abilities and dedication to making a positive impact, our coaching team represents a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences. With coaches from various ethnicities and races, we foster an inclusive and supportive environment that celebrates diversity and promotes cultural understanding.