Greetings! I am Dawaine Cosey (Cosey) the founder and Senior Director of Experience and Culture here at The LYF Project. The LYF Project is not just an organization—it’s a deeply personal mission inspired by my late brother, DeAndre, who embodied love, connection, and joy. His phrase, “Love You Fool,” is now the heartbeat of this initiative, as we strive to honor his legacy by creating transformative opportunities for Black and Brown young men to thrive.


My work with The LYF Project is grounded in nearly two decades of professional and a lifetime of personal experience dedicated to the holistic development and empowerment of young Black men. As a leader in culture development and community-building, I have worked extensively with high school and collegiate scholars, as well as post-graduate professionals, focusing on creating safe environments where they can discover their unique strengths, cultivate leadership competencies, build their emotional capacities, and develop their identities with confidence and clarity.

My passion stems from a deep commitment to seeing Black men thrive—not just as individuals, but as changemakers in their families, communities, and beyond. Academically, my research focuses on Black male wellbeing and liberation, blending academic inquiry with real-world application to make a lasting impact on the lives of young men. Professionally, these commitments have included, but not been limited to, roles such as Director of Culture and Empowerment at the all-male Ron Brown College Prep HS in Washington, DC, Assistant Director of the Center for Research and Mentoring of Black Male Students and Teachers, Wellness Coach for Minds in Motion Therapeutic Services LLC, and Founder/Coordinator of Curriculum and Culture for Bowie State IGNITE Men' s Initiative. Personally, as a son, brother, father, and mentor, I am inspired in my work to serve others with purpose by the efforts of those whose purpose served me.

The LYF Project is the culmination of all these experiences and more. From curating experiences like The COLLAB for aspiring college leaders, creating curriculum to support holistic student success, and providing 1-on-1 coaching, to envisioning future community centers and group homes, and large scale conferences, I am driven by the belief that black men deserve to live optimal lives. This work is not just professional—it’s deeply personal, and I am honored to walk alongside every young man who joins us in this journey.
Thank you for supporting The LYF Project. Together, we’re building a legacy of liberation and love.