ABOUT US
“Hip” is giving Youth a voice. “Hope” is optimism for the future.
At Hip-Hope, we are dedicated to implementing evidence-based asset-based community development (ABCD) practices, leveraging the transformative power of arts and culture. Our approach recognizes the inherent strengths and potential within communities and utilizes creative expressions to drive positive change. By harnessing the arts as a catalyst for social impact, we engage underprivileged / over-challenged Youth in meaningful activities that promote self-expression, resilience, and community connection. Through collaborative efforts and evidence-based strategies, we empower Youth to become active participants in their own development and the revitalization of their communities. At Hip-Hope, we are committed to nurturing the talents and aspirations of young people, creating opportunities for growth, and building a brighter future together.
Our programming goals are to ENGAGE underprivileged/over-challenged Youth to identify their passions. HELP them align their passions with their purpose. SUPPORT them so they can make their passion and purpose their priority. Then GUIDE them to their promise.
We are proud of our transformative impact, having served over 10,000 underprivileged/over-challenged youth since its establishment in 2016. Through holistic development programs, including academic, financial, leadership, and creative initiatives, we annually empower over 2,000 youth directly and 100 times more virtually. Our commitment to creative expression is recognized with 12 state and city proclamations for projects emanating from our "ARTiculate Express Studios". Beyond numbers, our impact is evident in tangible outcomes, such as a 6% reduction in the West Des Moines' school district's absentee rate and the prevention of youth homicides during the anticipated deadliest Summer of 2023 through our "Trenches" program. As we promise to introduce innovation and digital literacy into all our programming, Hip-Hope remains dedicated to bridging gaps, amplifying youth voices, and fostering a future illuminated by Hope and empowerment in “Hip”, innovative, fresh and contemporary ways.
FOUNDER
Believer/CEO
Bo James
Bo James is born and raised in the urban core of Des Moines, Iowa. Despite going up in a two parent home, being in gifted and talented, in marching band, an honor roll student and a world class athlete he realized that he was at risk. He accredits boxing and music for saving his life. By high school most of his closest peers and relatives were in gangs including his younger brother. By his senior year in high school most of them were in detention centers, prison and some had even lost their lives to the streets. He accredits music, sports and mentors for keeping him from falling into the traps of society that snared his family and friends.
7 Board Of Directors
President
Tafadzwa Jack Chimbetete
Tafadzwa Jack Chimbetete is a storyteller, ecosystem builder, and community leader using media as a tool for economic development and global connection. As Founder and CEO of AfricaLiveNetwork.tv, Jack amplifies underserved communities, innovations, and solutions—connecting Iowa-based stories to a global audience with the goal of attracting investment, partnerships, and opportunity. Jack also serves as President of One Voice DSM, representing people of the African Diaspora across Iowa. Under his leadership, One Voice hosts annual Business & Nonprofit Fairs and symposiums, equips entrepreneurs and organizations with resources to thrive, and leads the Annual Youth Summit and One Voice Mentoring Program, focused on inspiring and developing multicultural youth. The organization also hosts welcome receptions, an annual fundraising and charity gala supporting vulnerable families and refugees, and recognizes community leaders through impact awards. In addition, Jack is a Business Relations Consultant with CultureALL, where he works with organizations to strengthen corporate culture, improve team dynamics, and build high-performing teams through intentionally designed workshops and presentations that drive measurable results. Jack is a member of the LEAD DSM 2025–2026 cohort through the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute and serves on the United Way Early Childhood Success Cabinet, among other community initiatives. His leadership has been recognized with honors including the 2025 Passport to Prosperity Award and the 2023 President’s Volunteer Service Lifetime Achievement Award.
Vice President
Dr. Chester
Wilkins
After years of executive service in the music industry with renowned labels such as Rap-A-Lot, Def Jam, and Jive Records, Dr. Chester Wilkins, Ph.D., owner of Know-The-Code, a leading metadata, barcode, and curation firm, has pioneered a new era in the industrialization of royalty collections for music and video recordings. A Certified GS1 Specialist and ISRC Manager since 2007, Dr. Wilkins possesses one of the industry’s most respected credentials in GS1 Standards. His deep expertise and strategic insight have enabled him to build influential relationships across the digital ecosystem, including SoundScan, BDS, Mediabase, Sound Exchange, and international neighboring rights agencies. Dr. Wilkins’ deep industry expertise has made him a true asset to the music world, earning him the distinguished honors of an Honorary Doctor of Musical Arts and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from Upper Room Theological University. He has used his extraordinary talents and insight as the 2023 interim Director of Music Industry Alliance for YK Law Firm. He has toured music panels stressing the importance of knowing the codes; at major industry events, including A3C Music Festival and HBCU-NBODC conferences, and more recently, presented at the National Bar Association’s (NBA) Centennial Convention where his session provided Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credits to attending attorneys. Dr. Wilkins is published in multiple music industry publications as an expert on music in the digital era and continues to educate music artists and executives alike on the importance of music as a business and how to protect their intellectual property and monetize digital content.
Director
Bob Simcox
.Bob Simcox has a deep passion for people, justice, and the art of building community. For over three decades, Bob served the Des Moines area as the owner and operator of a successful hair salon—a role that allowed him to master the craft of connection one person at a time. A former pastor, Bob continues to pour into others as a life and ministry coach, guiding leaders toward their highest potential. His heart for service extends far beyond Iowa; he has dedicated significant time to international missions, particularly in Brazil, where he uses his unique skills and resources to inspire and serve local populations. Whether he is working on a global scale or serving locally in his own neighborhood, Bob remains committed to the empowerment of those around him.
Secretary
Marlen Maddux
Marlen Maddux is a nationally recognized, top producing mortgage loan officer -- and native of Honduras in Central America. In 1998, in the wake of Hurricane Mitch, and facing starvation, she left her two young daughters with relatives and embarked on a six-month journey to the United States. After enduring forced labor in Texas and hunting rattlesnakes for cash, Marlen moved to Iowa. In Iowa, she met her husband and reunited with her daughters -- both now college graduates, professionals, and military veterans. After running restaurants for other business people, Marlen obtained her real estate license and later her mortgage loan originator license. She is the author of the biography 'The Fruits of Unyielding Will', co-owns a radio station, and owns a trucking company. Today, she enjoys time with her husband, children, and grandchildren -- all while working tirelessly to make the dream of home ownership a reality for all people, embracing the rich stories and cultures from around the world her clients share every day.
Director
Matt Clark
Matt Clark is a cultural strategist, speaker, and the founder of The Culture Built® Movement, dedicated to helping high-risk industries—such as construction, tech infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing—recruit, retain, and develop elite talent. Known as the "Chief Energy Officer," Matt’s mission is to reignite the energy and workforce legacy of America’s most critical industries by building cultures that future generations want to be part of. His expertise is forged from real-world experience on both sides of the safety harness. A former union ironworker who worked on iconic projects like Trump Tower Chicago and was featured on the Discovery Channel, Matt eventually transitioned into high-level global leadership3333. He led human performance for a top-five global tech giant across more than 50 data center projects, becoming the first safety professional in that company's history to earn the US/LATAM Coin of Excellence4. Additionally, he has been honored as a National Safety Council Top 40 Under 40 recipient. Matt's work is driven by a deeply personal "why": the loss of his father. This event committed him to ensuring every worker returns home not just physically safe, but psychologically whole and inspired. He addresses the skilled trades crisis through his proven Recruit. Retain. Rise.™ framework, which focuses on rebranding the trades for younger generations, revitalizing team culture through trust, and fast-tracking leadership development.
Youth Director
Austin Jones
Austin Jones is a testament to the lifelong impact of the Hip-Hope mission. Born in Ames, Iowa, Austin has been a part of the Hip-Hope family since day one, evolving from a curious participant into a strategic leader and a member of the Board of Executives. His journey is defined by the practical application of the organization’s core pillars. Through the Hustle-nomics program, Austin mastered the art of financial discipline—learning to make, save, and invest with purpose. These skills allowed him to achieve a remarkable milestone for any young man, saving over $10,000 through Hip-Hope’s financial literacy initiatives. His success and charisma have also made him a recurring face in Hip-Hope’s commercial campaigns, where he represents the "Hope" that the organization strives to instill. Beyond his role on the Board, Austin is a hands-on mentor. For the past two years, he has led high-impact workshops at Young Men’s Conferences, teaching young men of color the importance of time management and strategic budgeting. He speaks from a place of experience, empowering his peers to make decisions today that protect their futures. In the professional sector, Austin’s leadership trajectory began early; he has held management positions since the age of 15. He is currently leveraging that experience as he trains to become the Operations Manager for Jones Cleaning and Remodeling, overseeing essential business functions across Illinois and Missouri. As a Board Member, Austin brings a unique "boots-on-the-ground" perspective, ensuring that Hip-Hope remains a place where young men of color can transform their financial habits and lead their communities with confidence.
Youth Director
Naomi Thames
Naomi's involvement with Hip Hope began several years ago as a junior workshop facilitator for the "Many Shades of Colour Young Women's Conference." Her ability to connect with, inspire, and educate young women is nothing short of extraordinary. Her contributions have significantly enhanced the impact of the conference, making her a valuable asset to our team. In addition to her work with "Many Shades of Colour," Naomi has actively participated in the "Hustlenomics" program and the young women's leadership retreat. Her insights and input in these programs have been instrumental in shaping their success and ensuring they remain relevant and impactful for our youth. Outside of Hip Hope, Naomi's achievements are equally impressive. She is an active member of her high school's Marching Band, Orchestra, Debate Team, and the Black Student Alliance. These experiences have honed her skills in teamwork, leadership, and effective communication – qualities that are essential for any board member. Moreover, Naomi's commitment to community service is exemplary. She has dedicated over seven years to volunteering, including visiting nursing homes and serving dinner to the community. Her involvement in multiple choirs within her local church further showcases her leadership and dedication to serving others. Naomi's multifaceted experiences, coupled with her passion for social change and youth empowerment, make her an ideal candidate for the Hip Hope Board. Her perspective as a young, driven, and talented Black woman will bring invaluable insights and contribute to the diversity of thought and experience within the board. In conclusion, I strongly recommend Naomi Thames for the Hip Hope Board. Her dedication, leadership, and commitment to community service align perfectly with the mission of Hip Hope. I am confident that she will be an exceptional addition to the board and will contribute significantly to the organization's future endeavors.