At the mention of Marvell’s name, faces seem to light up with similar stories of the way he interacts with everyone in an authentic, respectful and positive way.

Marvell, who is the youngest of nine, began his PTM journey in the 5th grade. “A friend told me about it. We ate, went outside to play football and had worship. It was a different vibe.”

Q: Marvell, why did you keep coming back?

A: The positive energy and all my friends were there which made it even better.

Q: Favorite PTM memory?

A: There is a lot but probably the waterfall. We went camping in somebody’s back yard and went to this creek and found the waterfall. We loved it.

Q: What are three words to describe you?

A: Respectful, positive and encouraging (PTM agrees!).

Q: What do you do that makes you happy while doing it?

A: Basketball. I feel most free then…not worried about bad things going on. I love to read. I don’t get to be at PTM as much as I would likebecause I have to work a lot to help my mom and grandma but when I do have a few extra minutes I read as a way to reward myself for working hard. I figure that is the best reward I can give myself is learning new things through reading.

Q: What books have you recently read?

A: The Business of the 21st Century, Think and Grow Rich, and Rich Dad, Poor Dad.

Q: Who is someone you admire and why?

A: Bishop TD Jakes because he’s a pastor that admits he’s not perfect and lives for his church.

Q: If you could have lunch with anyone living or dead who would it be?

A: Tupac. He and his mom were such inspirational leaders. I would ask, “How can I be effective in this day and time?”

Q: Effective how?

A: Successful in business with getting around the politics happening now.

Q: What are your plans post high-school?

A: I am still unsure but interested in the business side of the music business. I would like to get around the core classes and just take the classes that help with that.

Q: What do you think is a good quality in your wife someday?

A: A good mindset to be an independent problem solver.

Q: How do you see your life going in 10 years?

A: My dream is to buy a house big enough for me, my mom and grandma and be successful so they don’t have to work anymore.

Q: When someone says your name what do you hope they think about?

A: That I am a great kid, always positive and full of good energy.

Thank you, Marvell, we can’t wait to see God’s plan unfold in your life!