top of page
al_edited.jpg

Mr. Al Mathieu

Founder, CEO

Al Mathieu is the founder and CEO of Brownsville Think Tank Matters Inc. BTTM, an innovative social enterprise committed to empowering individuals and communities in the Brownsville, Brooklyn, and beyond. Under his leadership, BTTM has become a recognized force in creating sustainable solutions that address the unique challenges faced by his community. The organization focuses on enhancing education, youth development, community engagement, public safety, and economic opportunity through collaborative, grassroots approaches. A dynamic entrepreneur with deep ties to the community, Al founded BTTM in response to the systemic issues facing Brownsville residents. His vision is rooted in the belief that local communities should have the power and resources to shape their futures. Through BTTM, Al works tirelessly to provide individuals with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities to create long-term change. Al is an advocate for access to education, youth empowerment, and social justice. His work extends beyond the walls of BTTM, where he partners with local schools, businesses, and organizations to drive initiatives that tackle the root causes of gun violence.  In addition to his work with BTTM, Al is a workshop facilitator, Master Barber, and community leader. His life experiences, thoughtful leadership, and advocacy have made him a trusted voice in the movement for anti gun violence work.

​

Triumphant Thinking! Triumphant Thinking!

 

One piece of advice that I would give for Triumphant Thinking in the community would be: 1. Only be in competition with the person you were yesterday. Reflect and look for how you can learn from any mistakes you made, use those lessons and experiences be the spark that ignites your drive. 2. Find people who will motivate you and inspire you to want to grow and don't be afraid to be challenged, it's all for your growth and development. 3. Read, study, learn, and seek to gain a bigger understanding of the past, connection to the present, and creation of the future. Everything in the world was created using the mind, as you develop your mind you can join the movement.... Developing a Righteous United Movement! 

Meet the Team

The Brownsville Think Tank Matters Staff

IMG_7872.PNG

Chief Operating Officer

Jerry Cadet

I am  Jerry Cadet, a dedicated nonprofit executive and community leader from Brooklyn. With over 20 years in youth development, I am the Chief Operating Officer of Brownsville Think Tank Matters, Inc. (BTTM) / DRUM. Committed to empowering young people and underserved communities, Jerry holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Business Management from St. Francis College, graduating with honors. I enjoy exercising.

​

a3ff78e9-2669-43af-9684-a143d3e4c643.png

Executive Administrative Manager 

Dwayne Pierre 

I am  Dwayne. I serve as the Executive Administrative Manager at BTTM. In this role, I support leadership, coordinate administrative operations, improve internal systems, and help develop more organized and efficient processes for staff and programs. What motivates me most is the opportunity to leave a positive impact on the communities I serve. I want to give back to the neighborhoods that helped shape me and help create opportunities for people in communities that are too often overlooked or underserved. Knowing that my work can contribute to real change, stronger systems, and better support for others gives me a strong sense of purpose. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, learning about new technology, working on creative business ideas, and finding new ways to grow both personally and professionally.

5a4304f1-9b8e-42f4-9e2a-fc78dc42a17c (1).png

Director Administrator 

Portia Augustine 

I am Portia, and I am the Director of  Administrator at Brownsville Think Tank Matters. I have worked in this field for over 7 years. What motivates me to do this work is helping to make our community a better place. In my spare time, I enjoy dancing, listening to music, and spending time with family

05b87084-4884-4684-89db-28a5b83071c8.png

Administrative Operations Manager 

Lyneese Straws

I am Lyneese, and I am an Administrative Operations Manager at Brownsville Think Tank Matters.  I am highly enthusiastic about being a part of this field of work.  Engaging and being involved with the communities of Brooklyn is amazing, and I have been working with different communities in New York for over 5 years.  What motivates me to do this work is my commitment and passion to help people, of all ages, transition into something greater in their lives.  In my spare time, I love listening to music, helping others discover their passion to start their own business, marketing, and, most of all, maintaining my love for God.

26f41cff-0a23-41fc-b688-2853273b4999.png

Administrator

Kelsea Dance

I have worked as an administrator/youth advocate for the past 15 years. I value working as an administrator mostly due to the fact that I enjoy managing operational systems where I can aide its success. If you couple my administrative work with my passion for youth and young adults; you have a match made in heaven. I take pride in problem-solving, streamlining processes and ensuring that details are managed with care. In my spare time, I enjoy building brands, riding horses and spending time with my family.

IMG_7882.jpg

Program Manager 

Michael Warren 

I am Michael, and I am the Program Manager at Brownsville Think Tank Matters in the Flatbush office. I have been engaged in this field of work for over 5 years. What motivates me to do this work is reflecting on my past and the journey of reshaping my mind; I'm proof that transformation is possible. In my spare time, I enjoy catering and motivational speaking.

ced668a7-81cc-4d93-9c8e-ad2f53d9ff5a.png

Education and Employment Specialist (FB)

Jodi Asante

I am Jodi, and I am the  Education & Employment Specialist ( Flatbush Location). I have been engaged in this field of work for over 3 years. What motivates me to do this work is to make a difference for one participant at a time. With the commitment to empowerment and growth, I support the individual in reaching their educational and career goals. Beyond my professional work, I express creativity through hairstyling, transforming crowns, and helping people feel confident and seen.

Michael Washington.jpg

Education and Employment Specialist (BV)

Michael Washington

Michael is an Education & Employment Specialist at the Brownsville Office, driven by a strong commitment to empowerment, personal growth, and creating opportunities for others. He works closely with individuals to help them identify their goals, overcome barriers, and take meaningful steps toward achieving their educational and career aspirations. I enjoy watching pro sports, horseback riding, playing chess, and swimming.

Powerful Aguliar SR..jpg

Education and Employment Specialist (BV)

Powerful Aguliar

I am Powerful. As the Education & Employment Specialist in Brownsville, I am committed to supporting young individuals and their families. Drawing inspiration from my mentors, I strive to provide the same assistance. In my leisure time, I enjoy music and sports, which help maintain my motivation. Let us create opportunities for success.

f0aad225-de3d-451a-a9e8-adbcab264680.png

Solution Focused Therapist

Leslie Brooks

I am Leslie and I am the Solution Focused Therapist at Brownsville Think Tank Matters. I have been engaged in this field of work for almost 2 years. What motivates me to do this work is helping people to see that they are able to turn their lives around. In my spare time, I enjoy listening to audiobooks, exploring nature, and going to the beach.

IMG_7884.jpg

Community Event Coordinator (FB)

Stephen Thomas

I am Stephen and I am the Event Specialist/Community Coordinator at Brownsville Think Tank Matters.I have been engaged in this field of work for 3 years. What motivates me to do this work is engaging with the community, developing relationships, and mentoring youth. In my spare time, I enjoy working with my hands.

Jamila Kirkland.PNG

Community Event Coordinator (BV office)

Jamila Kirkland 

 I am Jamila, the Event Specialist and Coordinator, dedicated to uplifting our youth. With 10 months in this field, I believe in creating a positive environment for young individuals. In my spare time, I enjoy fashion styling, reading, and trying new foods. Let's inspire and empower our community together!

04721830-ef9e-463f-8c21-3e5094b0abdd.png

Media /CEO Assitant 

Miracle Chirse 

I am Miracle, and I am the Media Director and CEO Assistant at Brownsville Think Tank Matters. I have been engaged in this field of work for over 5 years. What motivates me to do this work is my love for the community that I live in. In my spare time, I enjoy photography, fashion styling, soccer, and doing makeup.

IMG_7885.jpg

Outreach Worker Supervisor (BV)

Jason Fields

I am Jason and I am the OW/VI supervisor at Brownsville Think Tank Matters. I have been engaged in this field of work for over 3 years. What motivates me to do this work is helping young people stay motivated to do the right thing. In my spare time, I enjoy basketball.

144aed04-e2c0-4138-bc93-359fcb07e43b.png

Outreach Worker (BV) /School Based Support

Richard Bonner

I am Richard and I am an outreach worker at Brownsville Think Tank Matters. I have been engaged in this field of work for over 6 years. What motivates me to do this work is assisting the youth to navigate various challenges to achieve their goal. In my spare time, I enjoy sports and learning

IMG_7883.jpg

Moblie Trauma Unit Driver 

Stewart Dowtin 

I am Stewart, and I am the MTU driver at Brownsville Think Tank Matters. I have been engaged in this field of work for four years. What motivates me to do this work is meeting community members who appreciate our work. In my spare time, I enjoy anything positive and helpful to myself and others.

IMG_7873.jpg

Outreach Worker (BV)

Kyle Halsey

 I am Kyle, and I am an Outreach Worker with Brownsville Think Tank Matters. I am dedicated to empowering at-risk youth. Through mentorship, resource connection, and the creation of safe, supportive spaces, I help teens overcome obstacles and unlock their potential. My work is rooted in a deep commitment to fostering growth, stability, and lasting positive change in the communities I serve.

Joseph Caraballa.jpg

Violence Interrupter (BV)

Joseph Caraballa

I am Joseph, a Violence Interrupter at Brownsville Think Tank Matters. I have been engaged in this field of work for over 4 years. What inspired me to do this work is to make a positive impact in the community. I believe my ability to communicate, listen, and relate to people can help me make a meaningful difference. In my spare time, I enjoy playing sports,video games and enjoy going out to eat.

475d39e8-f630-4f3c-bc72-fa8420a77846.png

Violence Interrupter (FB)

Minnie Gibson 

I am Minnie, and I am a Violence Interrupter at Brownsville Think Tank Matters. I have been engaged in this field of work for over 3 years. What motivates me to do this work is keeping my community safe. In my spare time, I enjoy exercising.d I am a Violence Interrupter at Brownsville Think Tank Matters. I have been engaged in this field of work for over 3 years. What motivates me to do this work is keeping my community safe. In my spare time, I enjoy exercising.

Martin Golds.jpg

Violence Interrupter (BV)

Martin Golds 

I am Martin, a Violence Interrupter at Brownsville Think Tank Matters. I have worked in this field for over 3 years. What motivates me to do this work is my declaration of faith and my commitment to keeping my community safe. In my spare time, I enjoy creating.

067710ee-4d30-4ef7-b027-7534a0b28c4d.png

Violence Interrupter (BV)

Riccie Haneiph​

I am Riccie , a Violence Interrupter at Brownsville Think Tank Matters. I have worked in this field for over 4 months. What motivates me is seeing my community in such desperate need of change and enlightment. im the community there is alot of blind leading the blind.My favorite activity is creating music and doing art work.

cfe5537b-2f98-48e6-bf16-261ec5993ce5.png

Violence Interrupter (FB)

Rudy Sylvain

I am Rudy and I am a Violence Interrupter at Brownsville Think Tank Matters. I have been engaged in this field of work for over 3 years. What motivates me to do this work is keeping my community safe. In my spare time, I enjoy exercising.

IMG_7876.jpg

Credible Messenger

Richard “Rayquan” Porter

 My name is Richard, and as a Credible Messenger at Brownsville Think Matters. I am dedicated to working with high-risk youth in our community. My commitment stems from a passion for giving back and making a meaningful impact, as I aim to empower young individuals to reach their full potential. In my leisure, I enjoy reading and talking with people from various backgrounds, enriching my perspective and understanding.

IMG_7875.jpg

Credible Messenger

Suif Jackson

My name is Suif, and I serve as a Credible Messenger at Brownsville Think Matters. I am inspired by the legacy of my ancestors, who dedicated themselves to enhancing our community and fostering a better quality of life. In my leisure time, I engage in gaming as a means of relaxation and rejuvenation. 

JOIN THE MOVEMENT!

 Get the Latest News & Updates

  • Instagram
  • Facebook

Brownsville Office: (718)-484-2485, 1602 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn NY 11212 / Flatbush Office: (718)-676-0585. 1486 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn NY 11210

bottom of page