Speaker: Dominique Waters, Founder, Executive Director & Chief Storyteller, Akron Sneaker Academy – Insight Akron 2025
Moderator: TBD

Dominique Waters is the Founder and Executive Director of Akron Sneaker Academy (ASA), a nonprofit organization that uses sneaker culture as a gateway to inspire youth, provide early exposure to polymer education, and create pathways to brighter futures. He built his professional foundation with more than a decade of experience in the luxury retail industry, working with globally recognized brands such as Nike, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Burberry, Target, and Lacoste. These experiences shaped his understanding of culture, brand power, and storytelling — skills he now channels into building ASA as a movement that speaks directly to young people. Through ASA, Dominique has pioneered culturally relevant programming that meets youth where they are, using sneakers as both a tool of engagement and a metaphor for growth. Since 2024, ASA reached more than 1,500 youth across Northeast Ohio, with signature initiatives including: Sneaker Summer Innovation Camp, “SOLE BOX” STEM Kits, and Saving Soles sustainability initiative. The Flagship Summer Camp received 85% student attendance over three weeks. Dominique’s leadership has drawn the support of major foundations and corporations including the Knight Foundation, GAR Foundation, Lubrizol Foundation, Huntington Bank Akron Foundation, Parker Hannifin, CAPTRUST Akron Foundation, and the City of Akron. ASA has also been featured in national and local outlets such as REVOLT, Black Enterprise, WKYC, Akron Beacon Journal, and Signal Akron, amplifying its message that sneakers can be more than fashion - they can be a bridge to opportunity. In 2025, Dominique was recognized as one of Greater Akron Chamber “30 for the Future” emerging leaders, and was selected as a Knight Foundation Emerging City Champion, further solidifying ASA’s place on the national stage. He was also awarded the Leadership Akron New Executive Leader Honor in 2026.At the heart of Dominique’s work is a deep belief in the potential of youth who are often furthest from opportunity. His mission is not to “save” but to ignite and empower, helping young people repurpose their talents, voices, and experiences into strength. His philosophy of “repurposing” reflects his own journey, embracing both triumphs and challenges as essential to his purpose.

Breakfast is included, compliments of the Akron RubberDucks

Join us as we bring in Akron’s changemakers for leadership conversations. Get to know the current class and engage with alumni through this open forum.