Gregory “Yussef” Bibb grew up in a foster care home in the West End of Louisville, Kentucky, a predominantly Black area troubled by crime and pollution. During his youth, Bibb became involved with gangs and drugs and was arrested. After receiving mentorship and counseling, he overcame these obstacles and, in 2020, founded Kocoon Academy, a nonprofit dedicated to improving opportunities for youth in disadvantaged and marginalized communities in Louisville. The organization focuses on education and development programs, conducts business assessments for local businesses and nonprofits, connects students with employers, and offers digital education programs through the online platform Kajabi. By recognizing community needs and empowering youth, Kocoon Academy aims to foster community growth and create a better future for the Black youth of Louisville.
Gregory “Yussef” Bibb (right corner), creator of the Kocoon Academy, in a public event. Photo Source: Kocoon Academy
As a small organization, Kocoon Academy relies on its founder’s dedication and networking. Bibb has engaged businesses and organizations in projects to educate local youth and raise environmental awareness. In collaboration with Kentucky Youth Advocates, he shares his foster care experiences at events to inspire youth facing similar challenges. Collaborating with Simmons College, Louisville’s only Historically Black College, Kocoon Academy is developing a pilot internship program that offers students hands-on experience in business, marketing, content creation, and emerging technologies like virtual reality and blockchain. The organization has conducted community surveys at the Nia Center to document residents’ experiences with air pollution in the West End, where chemical factories emit 76,713 pounds of toxins annually. Through these efforts, Kocoon Academy aims to build a “community development ecosystem,” a network of actors working together to improve community well-being.
Gregory “Yussef” Bibb (left corner), creator of the Kocoon Academy, at a public event. Photo Source: Kocoon Academy