Open Gates International: Breaking Barriers,Bridging Gaps by Empowering Families Worldwide
At Open Gates International, we believe in the power of community and the promise of a brighter future for every family. Our mission is to open the gates to sustainable opportunities and equip communities facing socio-economic challenges with the tools and support they need to thrive.
Our Purpose: Breaking Barriers, Building Futures
At Open Gates International, we believe in the power of equal opportunity. Our purpose is to open doors for families worldwide, providing them with the essential resources, skills, and support needed to thrive. We're committed to breaking down socio-economic barriers and empowering families to lead self-sufficient, fulfilling lives.
By focusing on sustainable solutions, we aim to create lasting change that ripples through generations. Our approach is holistic, addressing not just immediate needs but also long-term growth and development. We envision a world where every family, regardless of their circumstances, has the tools and opportunities to build a brighter future.
1
Identify Needs
We work closely with communities to understand their unique challenges and aspirations.
2
Develop Solutions
Our team creates tailored programs and initiatives to address specific community needs.
3
Implement Programs
We roll out our services, from food banks to leadership training, empowering families step by step.
4
Foster Sustainability
We focus on long-term impact, equipping communities with the skills to maintain and build upon their progress.
Our Mission: Empowering Individuals, Transforming Communities
Open Gates International is driven by a powerful mission: to empower individuals and communities worldwide by providing access to essential resources, education, and opportunities. We are dedicated to fostering inclusivity and breaking down barriers that hinder progress and growth.
Our commitment to equality and empowerment fuels our efforts to create positive, lasting change. We believe that by supporting one person at a time, we can transform entire communities. Through our diverse range of programs and initiatives, we strive to build a world where everyone has the support they need to thrive and reach their full potential.
Education
Providing access to learning opportunities for all ages.
Resources
Ensuring essential supplies and support reach those in need.
Opportunity
Creating pathways for personal and professional growth.
Community
Fostering strong, supportive networks for sustainable change.
Our President
Meet
Brigitte O’Michaels
MPA, LMC
President and Founder Open Gates International
Brigitte O'Michaels is a transformational executive leadership coach, trainer, speaker, and the author of "Gurl, Fix Your Crown." With over two decades of global experience across three continents, Brigitte has dedicated her career to empowering aspiring leaders and women in various sectors. As the founder of Open Gates International and the driving force behind the "Gurl Fix Your Crown" retreat, she is committed to creating transformative experiences that promote growth, resilience, and community among women leaders. Her work aims to inspire women to step into their power, embrace their unique strengths, and forge paths of leadership and success.
Favorite Quote: "One broken dream is never the end of dreaming. If your dreams are broken, go to sleep, for tomorrow you will dream again". "A lesson from her late mom."
Board of Directors
Driving Strategic Vision:
Meet Our Indispensable Secretary
Idowu Akinleye, our esteemed Secretary, is the strategic mastermind behind Open Gates International's operational excellence. With decades of experience in planning and execution, he is the unsung hero who ensures our programs run like a well-oiled machine. Blending his analytical prowess with a passion for empowering communities, Idowu is the lynchpin that holds our Board of Directors together, guiding us towards realizing our ambitious goals.
KIMBERLY CHINOMSO
Visionary Leader, Passionate Advocate
Meet our Vice President, a trailblazer who embodies the spirit of our organization. As Miss World America Ist Runner Up 2024, Miss Africa Washington State 2023, she dedicates her boundless energy to leading our non-profit focused on empowering girls through education. Her unwavering commitment to community empowerment makes her an invaluable asset to the Open Gates Board.
Community and Leadership Advancement Program (CLAP)
Our Community and Leadership Advancement Program (CLAP) is a comprehensive initiative designed to foster community growth and individual empowerment. At the heart of CLAP is our commitment to nourishing both body and spirit, exemplified by our Food Bank and Biddie's Soup Kitchen. These services not only provide essential sustenance but also create a space for community gathering and connection.
CLAP goes beyond immediate needs, focusing on long-term community development. Through our Business Growth Development programs, we nurture entrepreneurial spirits and cultivate leadership skills. Our Community Sharing Workforce Development initiative offers tailored vocational training and job placement services, ensuring that community members are equipped with the skills needed in today's job market.
Food Bank & Soup Kitchen
(Biddie's Soup Kitchen) Providing nourishment and fostering community connections through shared meals and gatherings.
Business Development
Empowering entrepreneurs with the skills and resources to start and grow successful businesses.
Workforce Development
Offering vocational training and job placement services tailored to community needs and market demands.
Women's Empowerment Program: QueenMakers International
QueenMakers International, our Women's Empowerment Program, is dedicated to uplifting and supporting women facing various challenges. We recognize the unique struggles many women encounter and have developed a comprehensive suite of services to address these needs. Our Domestic Violence and Trauma Support services provide a safe haven and healing resources for women who have experienced abuse or trauma.
Understanding the importance of mental health, we offer specialized Mental Health Services tailored to women's needs. Our Leadership and Entrepreneurial Workshops are designed to empower women with the skills and confidence needed to excel in both personal and professional spheres. Through QueenMakers International, we aim to create a world where every woman can reclaim her power and thrive.
Domestic Violence and Trauma Support
We provide comprehensive support services for women who have experienced domestic violence or trauma. This includes safe housing, counseling, legal aid, and long-term recovery support.
Mental Health Services
Our mental health initiatives offer counseling, support groups, and wellness workshops specifically designed to address women's mental health needs. We focus on building resilience and promoting overall well-being.
Leadership and Entrepreneurial Workshops/Retreat
These programs equip women with essential skills in leadership, business management, financial literacy, and personal development. We aim to foster confidence and provide practical tools for success in various fields.
Workshops, Retreats, Conferences and Summits for Women's Empowerment -
"Gurl Fix Your Crown Retreat "
We provide comprehensive support services for women who have experienced domestic violence or trauma. This includes safe housing, counseling, legal aid, and long-term recovery support.
Littlionaire Program: Nurturing Future Leaders
The Littlionaire Program is our dedicated initiative for youth empowerment, focusing on nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. We believe in the potential of every young person to make a positive impact on the world. Our Youth Empowerment Workshops offer interactive sessions that cover crucial topics such as financial literacy, leadership development, and personal growth, equipping young people with the skills they need to navigate life successfully.
Understanding the importance of mental health in youth development, we organize Mental Health Days and provide ongoing support to ensure the emotional well-being of young participants. Our Personal Development Kits, including period kits for girls and grooming kits for boys, promote hygiene and self-care, fostering confidence and self-respect among youth.
1
Empower
Equip youth with essential life skills and knowledge through interactive workshops and training sessions.
2
Support
Provide mental health resources and personal development tools to nurture overall well-being.
3
Inspire
Organize global awareness trips to broaden perspectives and ignite passion for community service.
4
Cultivate
Foster leadership qualities and entrepreneurial spirit to shape future change-makers.
Global Outreach: Mission and Medical Trips
Our commitment to global impact extends beyond borders through our Mission and Medical Trips. These initiatives bring essential healthcare services and support to communities in need, particularly in Africa. We organize comprehensive health check-ups, including breast exams, mammograms, pap smears, prostate cancer screenings, and eye exams with prescription glasses distribution.
But our mission goes beyond physical health. We conduct mindset training sessions, fostering a positive outlook and empowering individuals to overcome challenges. Recognizing education as a cornerstone of development, we provide school fees and scholarships for children from low-income families in government schools across Africa. These trips not only offer immediate aid but also create lasting connections and foster a spirit of global citizenship among our volunteers and the communities we serve.
Empowering Communities: Past Events
Biddie's Soup Kitchen
Nourishing the hungry and building community through the power of shared meals.
QueenMakers International
Empowering women through leadership development and entrepreneurship programs.
Littlionaire Program
Nurturing future leaders through financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills training.
Community Development & Outreach
Transforming communities through collaborative partnerships and impactful projects.
Join Our Team: Make a Difference
At Open Gates International, we offer more than just a job – we offer the opportunity to be part of a global movement dedicated to transforming lives and communities. When you join our team, you'll engage in diverse initiatives that span from grassroots community development to empowering the next generation of leaders. Our work environment is dynamic, supportive, and focused on both professional growth and personal fulfillment.
As a member of our team, you'll have the chance to see the tangible difference your efforts make in the lives of individuals and families around the world. We believe in fostering a collaborative spirit where every team member's contributions are valued and instrumental in paving the way for a more equitable world. Join us in our mission to bridge gaps, break barriers, and create sustainable futures for families worldwide.
1
Meaningful Impact
See the direct results of your work in transforming lives and communities.
2
Professional Growth
Develop your skills and expertise through diverse, challenging projects.
3
Global Perspective
Gain insights into global issues and contribute to international development.
4
Collaborative Environment
Work with a passionate team dedicated to making a positive change in the world.
Our Commitment: Bridging Gaps, Breaking Barriers
At Open Gates International, our commitment to creating positive change is unwavering. We dedicate ourselves to bridging gaps that divide communities, fostering unity and collaboration across diverse groups. By bringing people together, we create a foundation for mutual understanding and shared progress. Our innovative solutions are designed to build better, more sustainable communities that can thrive long into the future.
We are resolute in our mission to break down barriers that prevent access to opportunities. Whether it's education, healthcare, or economic empowerment, we strive to remove obstacles that hinder personal and community growth. Through our comprehensive programs and initiatives, we open doors to development, ensuring that everyone has the chance to reach their full potential and contribute to a brighter, more inclusive world.
Unity
We bring diverse communities together, fostering understanding and collaboration for shared progress.
Innovation
Our creative solutions address complex challenges, paving the way for sustainable community development.
Access
We remove barriers to essential resources and opportunities, ensuring equitable growth for all.
Empowerment
Through education and support, we enable individuals and communities to drive their own development.
Join Us in Creating a Better World
Open Gates International invites you to be part of our global mission to empower families and transform communities. Your support, whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, can make a significant difference in the lives of those facing socio-economic challenges. Together, we can open gates to equal opportunities and create a world where every family has the chance to thrive.
By joining our cause, you become an integral part of a movement that believes in the power of collective action. Your contribution, no matter how small, ripples out to create lasting change. Help us continue to provide essential resources, education, and support to those who need it most. Together, we can build a more equitable, sustainable, and compassionate world for generations to come.