We were lucky to catch up with Shakir Seagers recently and have shared our conversation below.
Shakir, appreciate you joining us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
In the bustling borough of the Bronx, the seeds of Theory 9 Incorporated were sown. The year was 2021, and the world was grappling with the aftermath of a global pandemic. Communities, especially those in underserved areas like the Bronx and Manhattan, were struggling with heightened food insecurity, disrupted education, and a general sense of uncertainty about the future. Amidst this turmoil, me and a group of passionate friends from the community, driven by a shared vision of creating a better future for our community, came together.
The idea for Theory 9 wasn’t born out of a single moment, but rather a culmination of experiences and observations. Being deeply rooted in the neighborhood, I’ve had long been aware of the systemic issues plaguing my community. I saw students falling behind in their studies due to lack of resources, families lining up at food pantries, and a general absence of programs that could foster self-sufficiency and empowerment. The pandemic had only exacerbated these issues, bringing them into sharp focus.
One evening, after purchasing new backboards and rims for our local park, me and some friends gathered together and began discussing these challenges in earnest. The conversation was filled with a mix of frustration and determination. We knew we had to do something, but the question was what. As we brainstormed, a vision began to take shape. What if we could create an organization that not only addressed these immediate needs but also built a foundation for long-term success and self-sufficiency? What if we could offer quality services and programs that reached out to diverse cultures and built gateways to success?
The idea of Theory 9 Incorporated was born out of this collective brainstorming session. The name itself, “Theory 9,” symbolized our belief in the power of theory and practice coming together to create transformative change. Theory meaning vision and the number 9 symbolizing complete. We envisioned an organization that would provide education mentoring, health and wellness programs, monthly food distributions, and annual events to promote community engagement. Each program was designed to address a specific need while contributing to the overall goal of empowering individuals and families.
I knew this was a worthwhile endeavor because we were solving problems that were deeply felt but inadequately addressed. We had seen other organizations make a difference, but there was still a gap – a need for a more holistic, inclusive approach that didn’t just provide temporary relief but fostered lasting change. We believed in the resilience and potential of our community, and we wanted to create a space where that potential could be nurtured and realized.
What got me most excited was the prospect of seeing tangible changes in my community. I imagined students excelling in their studies, families having access to nutritious food, and community members coming together in a spirit of unity and support. I was driven by the logic that when people are given the tools and opportunities to succeed, they will rise to the occasion. I saw Theory 9 as a catalyst for this transformation – a beacon of hope and a force for good.
With this vision in mind, I poured my heart and soul into bringing Theory 9 to life. I’ve reached out to partners, secured funding, and launched our programs with a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation. The road wasn’t always easy, but my belief in the mission and the support of our community kept me going.
Today, Theory 9 stands as a testament to what can be achieved when passionate individuals come together with a shared vision. Our organization has made significant strides in improving the lives of NYC residents, proving that with determination, empathy, and a clear plan, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m excited to share the story of Theory 9 Incorporated and how we have grown to serve our community.
Theory 9 was established in 2021 with a mission to improve the lives of NYC residents through humanitarian efforts. Our focus is on reaching out to diverse cultures, building gateways to success through quality service and programs, and working towards self-sufficiency for the individuals we serve.
The inception of Theory 9 stemmed from a deep-seated awareness of the systemic challenges facing our community, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a resident myself, I saw firsthand the struggles with food insecurity, disrupted education, and a lack of comprehensive support systems. This collective experience drove me to come together with a vision to create an organization that could address these issues holistically and sustainably.
We offer a range of programs designed to empower individuals and families, fostering a path to self-sufficiency and success. Our key initiatives include:
Education Mentoring: We provide enrichment activities for students, offering them the academic support and guidance they need to excel in their studies.
Health & Wellness: Our wellness programs offer resources and activities aimed at improving the physical and mental health of our community members.
Monthly Food Distributions: By combating food insecurity through regular food distributions, we ensure that families have access to nutritious meals.
Annual Events: These events promote community engagement and unity, bringing people together to celebrate and support one another.
Our Impact: Since our founding, Theory 9 has achieved significant milestones:
Partnering with Boost Mobile. launching a basketball program that finished in the top 50 in the country. distributing over 5,000 backpacks and supplies to students. feeding over 10, 000 families fighting food insecurity. hosting over 200 community events. receiving the Jr. Knick Coach of the Year award.
What differentiates Theory 9 is our holistic approach to community support. We don’t just provide temporary relief; we build long-term pathways to success. Our programs are designed to address immediate needs while also fostering sustainable development and self-sufficiency. This integrated approach ensures that we make a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.
We are incredibly proud of the positive changes we’ve seen in our community. Our greatest achievements are reflected in the testimonials of those we’ve helped. From Council Member Pierina Sanchez praising us as the “next generation in our neighborhood” to Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson recognizing us as the “resilience we need to fuel,” these endorsements validate our efforts and motivate us to keep pushing forward.
Looking ahead, our goals include gaining more resources to provide additional opportunities for underserved youth, obtaining a brick-and-mortar space for our community programs. This initiative will further our mission of creating a supportive and empowering environment for NYC residents.
We want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that Theory 9 is dedicated to making a difference. Our commitment to quality service, community engagement, and sustainable development is unwavering. We invite you to join us in our journey, whether through participation in our programs, partnership opportunities, or support of our events. Together, we can build a brighter future for our community.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about Theory 9 Incorporated. We look forward to continuing our work and expanding our impact in the years to come.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
The winter of 2022 was a pivotal time for Theory 9 Incorporated. As we prepared for our annual Holiday Joy Fest, a cornerstone event aimed at bringing joy and support to hundreds of children in NYC, we encountered an unexpected and daunting challenge.
With just days to go before the event, we received devastating news: Toys for Tots, our primary partner for toy donations, informed us that due to unforeseen logistical issues, they would be unable to deliver the toys we were counting on. This setback threatened to derail the entire event. The Holiday Joy Fest was more than just a festive celebration; it was a beacon of hope for families who had been through a tough year, and we couldn’t bear the thought of disappointing the children who looked forward to it.
Our team was determined to find a solution. We brainstormed late into the night, making calls, sending emails, and reaching out to every contact in our network. As the days ticked by, the pressure mounted, but our resolve never wavered. Then, in the eleventh hour, a miracle happened.
CPRF Charity, an organization we had just partnered with on a prior event, stepped up in a big way. Hearing about our predicament, they mobilized their resources and, in a stunning display of generosity and efficiency, managed to donate hundreds of toys just in time for the event. The relief and gratitude we felt were immeasurable. CPRF Charity’s timely intervention not only saved the Holiday Joy Fest but also solidified a partnership that has now thrived for three years and counting.
With the toys secured, our team worked tirelessly to ensure everything was ready for the big day. Volunteers decorated the venue, wrapped gifts, and set up activities, all while coordinating the logistics of distributing the last-minute toy donations. The sense of community and shared purpose was palpable, infusing everyone with renewed energy and determination.
On the day of the Holiday Joy Fest, the venue was transformed into a winter wonderland. As families arrived, the children’s eyes widened with delight at the sight of the beautifully decorated space and the mountains of gifts waiting for them. The event was a resounding success, filled with laughter, joy, and the spirit of togetherness.
Parents expressed their heartfelt thanks, often with tears in their eyes, knowing that their children would have a memorable holiday despite the challenges they faced. The impact of the Holiday Joy Fest went beyond just the distribution of toys; it reinforced the strength and resilience of our community and the power of coming together in times of need.
Looking back, the crisis with Toys for Tots was a turning point that showcased our resilience and the strength of our partnerships. CPRF Charity’s crucial support not only salvaged the event but also exemplified the essence of what we strive to achieve at Theory 9 Incorporated: building strong, supportive networks that can overcome any obstacle.
Our ongoing partnership with CPRF Charity continues to flourish, and together, we have touched countless lives, bringing hope and joy to our community year after year. This story of resilience and collaboration is a testament to the enduring spirit of Theory 9 Incorporated and our unwavering commitment to serving undeserving communities.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
In the vibrant world of the music industry, my life was a whirlwind of tours, concerts, and constant travel. As a music manager for 24kGoldn, fresh off a successful tour with YBN Cordae and a hit single “Mood”, my days were filled with managing schedules, coordinating with venues, and ensuring every performance was a hit. The energy was electric, the experiences unforgettable, and the opportunities endless. However, amidst the glamour and excitement, there was always a part of me deeply connected to my Kingsbridge community in the Bronx.
In early 2020, fresh from the tour, I decided to invest some time and resources into renovating our local park. Growing up, this park had been a sanctuary, a place where dreams were nurtured and friendships forged. The basketball courts, in particular, held a special place in my heart. With the help of some friends we replaced the old rims and backboards, breathing new life into the space. The joy on the faces of the kids who played there was priceless and deeply fulfilling.
Then, the world changed. The COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, bringing everything to a standstill. Tours were canceled, venues closed, and the bustling life I had known came to an abrupt halt. Suddenly, the frenetic pace of my career was replaced by the quiet uncertainty of lockdown. But in this pause, I found clarity and purpose.
As the pandemic unfolded, I witnessed the devastating impact it had on my community. Food insecurity soared, educational disruptions left students struggling, and the need for comprehensive support systems became more evident than ever. It was in these challenging times that the idea for Theory 9 Incorporated began to take shape. I envisioned an organization dedicated to improving the lives of Bronx and Manhattan residents through humanitarian efforts, bridging gaps, and building pathways to success.
Launching Theory 9 during the pandemic was a leap of faith. We started with small, focused initiatives—monthly food distributions, educational mentoring programs, and health and wellness resources. The goal was to address immediate needs while laying the groundwork for long-term community empowerment. Despite the obstacles, the response was overwhelmingly positive. People were eager to come together, support one another, and rebuild stronger.
Amidst these transformative efforts, another profound change took place in my life: I became a father. The birth of my son brought a new dimension to my world, filling it with love, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose. Balancing the demands of fatherhood with the responsibilities of launching and growing Theory 9 was challenging, but it also provided me with an even deeper understanding of the importance of community, support, and resilience.
Fatherhood inspired me to think even more critically about the legacy I wanted to leave behind. I want my son to grow up in a community that was not just surviving, but thriving. This personal motivation fueled my commitment to Theory 9, driving me to push through the tough times and celebrate the victories, no matter how small.
Today, as I look back on this journey, I am filled with gratitude and pride. Transitioning from a touring music manager to a community leader was not an easy path, but it was a necessary and fulfilling one. The skills I honed in the music industry, organization, communication, and the ability to bring people together, proved invaluable in my new role. Theory 9 Incorporated has grown from a fledgling idea into a beacon of hope and support for our community, and I am excited for what the future holds.
This story of transformation is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the unwavering belief that we can create positive change, no matter the circumstances. My journey from the stage to the heart of the community is one of the most rewarding chapters of my life and I am committed to continuing this work driven by the love for my community and the desire to uplift those around me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.wearetheory9.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearetheory9
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearetheory9
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/wearetheory9
