OUR TEAM

Christina Pattyn
Founder and Executive Director

Christina Pattyn is an entrepreneur and marketing executive with experience creating branding and visual communication strategies for Fortune 500 clients. Christina’s entrepreneurial background includes creating and managing successful design agencies and entertainment venues.

As Executive Director, Christina guides the vision, planning, and programming of Griot Initiative, ensuring we deliver on our goals for each and every stakeholder.

Elijah Evans, Jr.
Chief Operating Officer

Elijah Evans Jr. is a dedicated youth advocate, mentor, and entrepreneur based in Detroit, Michigan. With more than 15 years of experience serving young people through academics and athletics, Elijah has committed his life to helping students grow, lead, and succeed.

He currently serves within the Voyageur Academy school district, where he plays an active role in supporting student development and strengthening school culture. Elijah has also coached with Detroit PAL for over 12 years and has helped lead the Detroit Chargers, mentoring and guiding youth both on and off the field.

In addition to his nonprofit and educational work, Mr. Evans is an entrepreneur with a background in marketing and advertising. He understands how branding, communication, and strategic outreach can positively impact organizations and community initiatives. His business experience strengthens his ability to build programs, develop partnerships, and expand opportunities for the youth he serves.

A strong advocate for young people of color, Elijah is passionate about equipping the next generation with the tools, confidence, and support they need to overcome challenges and become impactful young adults. His mission is simple: serve with purpose, lead with heart, and help make Detroit a stronger community—one student at a time.

Ron Watters
Director of Arts Programming

Ron Watters is a product designer, artist, educator, and lifelong Detroiter. He is the founder and owner of One Custom City and SCIDE Design. 

Ron holds a Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Design from the University of Michigan. His work bridges design, education, and social impact, with a focus on empowering communities through creativity and entrepreneurship.

He has taught entrepreneurship and graphic design as an instructor with Detroit Future Media, an initiative of the Detroit Digital Justice Coalition and Allied Media Projects. Ron is also a member of the Move the Crowd True+Paid+Good Academy, a rigorous training program founded by Rha Goddess that supports the development of conscious and values-aligned entrepreneurs.

In 2014, Ron served as an artist-in-residence at Detroit Community Schools through Detroit Connections, an initiative of the University of Michigan Stamps School of Art & Design. He has also served on the Advisory Board for the Detroit Design Festival, contributing to the city’s vibrant design ecosystem.

Dennis W. Archer, Jr., Esq.
Advisor

Dennis W. Archer Jr., Esq. is a community and civic leader, entrepreneur, and businessman. Archer is the Chairman and CEO of Sixteen42 Ventures, a parent company to his diversified operating subsidiaries.

Civic and philanthropic involvement is a passion of Archer’s. His vast contributions include past Chair of the Detroit Regional Chamber Board of Directors; Founder and Chairman of Paradise Valley Foundation; and he sits on the boards of the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy, Dennis W. Archer Foundation, Citizen Detroit, and the Wayne County Youth and Senior Education Board.

Archer received both his undergraduate degree and Juris Doctorate from the University of Michigan. A fervid advocate and supporter of Griot, he lends a wealth of expertise in publishing, marketing, and public relations.