A flag flying in the wind with a blue sky background, displaying the logo and text for the Alliance of Elite Youth Leadership.

AEYL

CENTERALIZED IN MCKINNEY - PROVIDING PROGRAMS AND SERVICES THROUGHOUT COLLIN COUNTY, TEXAS SINCE 2013

The Alliance of Elite Youth Leadership (AEYL)—is a mission-driven organization committed to uplifting families and empowering teens (12-18) and young adults (19-24), including those facing socioeconomic barriers. Through a comprehensive portfolio of community-rooted programs, AEYL cultivates leadership, entrepreneurial acumen, and civic engagement.

Guided by The AEYLWAY, our organizational ethos centers on exposure, opportunity, and inspiration. We believe that lasting transformation begins with intentional investment in young people’s potential. By equipping emerging leaders with the tools, mentorship, and experiences they need to thrive, AEYL fosters a generation of changemakers prepared to lead with purpose and impact.

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◼MEET THE FOUNDERS

Green shield-shaped emblem with black letters 'AEYL' and a star-like symbol integrated into the letter 'A'.

Derrick Robinson
A lifelong advocate for youth development, Derrick hails from Lee County, Arkansas, and now channels his experience into molding the next generation here in Collin County, Texas. As a passionate advocate, mentor and community leader, he believes that the strongest lessons are learned by example. Derrick’s leadership roles—ranging from local boards to educational initiatives—reflect his dedication to providing teens and young adults with real-world models of success.

Ceretha Robinson
Also a Marianna native, Ceretha brings the drive of an entrepreneur, veteran, and proud Minority-Women-Veteran Owned business owner to AEYL. She guides our entrepreneurial and engagement strategies, emphasizing the importance of both economic opportunity and community connection. Ceretha’s dynamic approach ensures that every program we offer is not only resourceful but also sustainable.

United by their shared roots and vision, Derrick and Ceretha Robinson embody The AEYLWAY: empowering teens and young adults through leadership, entrepreneurship, and community involvement.

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◼THE ‘A’ Team - Recognitions Since 2018

Our passionate ‘A’ Team brings decades of volunteer leadership and board experience to serve McKinney and Collin County families:

  • 2018 NON-PROFIT of the Year Award presented by Volunteer McKinney

  • 2019 MCDC Quality of Life Award presented by McKinney Chamber of Commerce

  • 2020 NAACP Advocacy Award presented by Collin County NAACP

  • 2022 Award recipient for being an Outstanding Contributor to Education and Youth

    Development presented by Delta Sigma Theta Incorporated

  • 2023 recipient of the CUTX Community Leader Award

  • Nominee of the 2024 Volunteer McKinney Small Business Award recognized by Volunteer McKinney

  • Recently nominated for the 2025 MEDC Workforce Development Award presented by McKinney Economic Deveopment Corporation

We leverage these outstanding recognitions and experiences to deliver an all-inclusive approach—connecting families to educational support, economic empowerment, and leadership development.

Green flag with black text spelling 'AEYL' and a star design.

◼OUR MISSION

AEYL is a catalyst for change, committed to developing a diverse population of emerging leaders from underrepresented and underserved communities. We exist to eliminate barriers and expand horizons by creating pathways of accessibility, exposure, and opportunity that empower individuals to build a purposeful and promising future.