The Mal Defender Listens Summer 2026 Youth Podcast Academy gives teens ages 15+ the chance to build confidence, learn real media skills, and explore the exciting world of podcasting in a fun, supportive environment.
Whether you enjoy talking, storytelling, creating content, or want to try something new — this program is for you!
⚠️ Only 10 spaces available — limited enrollment!
📅 Registration Deadline: June 15, 2026
👉 Register today and let your voice be heard!
Malon's Project, Inc. is dedicated to empowering youth, particularly those with ADHD, by fostering creativity and growth through the cultivation of core values: honesty, humility, gratitude, objectivity, compassion, responsibility, open-mindedness, and willingness. We provide a supportive space where adolescents can explore their potential, learn non-violent conflict resolution, and develop leadership skills. Through workshops, events, and educational resources, we help young people overcome ADHD-related challenges, break down stereotypes, and build a community grounded in respect and personal growth.
Malons Project, in partnership with North Phoebus Community Center, recently hosted an exciting double elimination Chess Tournament alongside Faith Walkers Chess Club of Williamsburg and Hampton University Chess Club. The event drew an impressive turnout, with players and supporters filling the room with great energy and competitive spirit. Between matches, the crowd was treated to extra fun courtesy of the Malons Project Human Slots Machine — always a crowd favorite!
When the dust settled, the tournament crown went to Emily, a soft-spoken competitor who proved that quiet determination is a force to be reckoned with.
Congratulations to Emily and all the talented players who participated!
The excitement doesn't stop there — Malons Project will be offering Chess Classes this Summer, and registration is now open! Visit our website for upcoming dates and details. We hope to see you on the board!
Malon Aikee Pearson, of Hampton, Virginia, was a bundle of joy born on December 23, 2002 (a Christmas baby), to Marcus Pearson (Donna), Hampton, Virginia, and Bobbi Latty, Gloucester, Virginia. Malon was an excellent swimmer, he loved the water, he could have been the next Michael Phelps, he was 6‘4” and played basketball, he could have been the next Lebron James. Malon was a true athlete at heart, he played basketball, soccer, and baseball. Anything with ...
Happy New Year! Registration is open! Classes are limited to 6–8 students, so register early. Sign up for multiple classes to increase enrollment chances. Secure your spot today!
Malons Project, Inc. lit up the West Hampton Community Center yesterday for YouthFest '26, a day dedicated to celebrating the next generation of leaders, creators, and changemakers in our community. From young entrepreneurs showcasing their earliest ventures to families spending the day together, YouthFest '26 was a powerful reminder of just how much talent and heart exists right here in Hampton.
Celebrating Young Entrepreneurs
At the heart of this year's YouthFest was a spotlight on young entrepreneurs already making their mark. These young people aren't waiting for adulthood to start contributing — they're building, creating, and giving back right now. Their early ventures and ideas are a glimpse into the kind of leaders our community will be shaped by in the years ahead, and YouthFest '26 was proud to give them a stage.
A Special Shout-Out to the Greater Aberdeen Community
We want to give a heartfelt shout-out to the **Greater Aberdeen Community** and their leader, **Shelton Tucker**, for their continued partnership and presence at YouthFest '26. Community leadership like this is exactly what strengthens neighborhoods — and Aberdeen's ongoing involvement with Malons Project is something we deeply value.
Mal Defender Made His Rounds
No Malons Project event is complete without an appearance from **Mal Defender** — and he did not disappoint! Making his way through the crowd throughout the day, Mal Defender brought smiles, high-fives, and plenty of energy to YouthFest '26, embodying the spirit of resilience and joy that inspired his creation in the first place.
Kids and Adults Take On the Human Slots Machine
One of the day's biggest draws was the **Human Slots Machine**, where kids and adults alike lined up for a chance to play and win great prizes. The energy around the game was contagious, with laughter and cheers filling the air every time someone hit a winning combination. Best of all, every dollar raised through the Human Slots Machine goes directly toward supporting Malons Project's programming — making the fun that much more meaningful.
Thank You, Serve the City
YouthFest '26 would not have been possible without the incredible volunteers provided through our partnership with **Serve the City**. Their volunteers stepped up throughout the day — running activity stations, welcoming families, and making sure the event ran smoothly from start to finish. We are so grateful for this partnership and everything Serve the City continues to bring to Malons Project's mission.
Looking Ahead
YouthFest '26 is just one part of Malons Project's ongoing work to invest in young people across Hampton Roads. Thank you to everyone who came out, volunteered, and supported this year's event — we can't wait to do it again.
*Interested in getting involved with Malons Project? Visit our programs page to learn more about upcoming events and volunteer opportunities. *