About us

Who We Are?

Physical activity is paramount to our programmes.

Research has shown that physical exercise can enhance cognitive functions, improve memory and increase the brains capacity for learning. Exercise stimulates the release of growth factors that improve the health and function of neurons, encourages neurogenesis (the creation of new neurons), and enhances brain plasticity which is crucial for memory and learning. Additionally, exercise can improve mood and reduce stress, both are beneficial for improving the educational and social outcomes for the youth.

A Word from Our Founder

Having grown up in a socially and economically challenging environment, I know firsthand the pain, trauma, and barriers that many young people face. For me, discovering fitness was a lifeline—it came early through football, training in boxing gyms, lifting weights, and eventually led me to become a professional men’s physique athlete and a dedicated personal trainer. Along the way, I connected with people whose success and support opened doors and broadened my horizons. 

These experiences gave me a vision that extended beyond my immediate surroundings, and that’s what I aim to pass on to the young people we serve. I want to help them look beyond their current circumstances, to see past the limits they may feel, and to build dreams that can set them free. In a world filled with challenges and negativity, I believe it is my purpose to give back—to be for others the help that was once given to me.

What We Do?

Our Objective

Our primary pursuit is to reach as many young people as possible through our unique programs. Along the way, our objectives are to:

 

  1. Empower youth with the skills and confidence to navigate life’s challenges
  2. Foster mental and physical well-being as foundational aspects of growth
  3. Inspire positive change by broadening horizons and raising aspirations
  4. Strengthen community bonds through collaboration and support for social mobility
 

Through these goals, we aim to create lasting impact and guide young people toward brighter, more resilient futures.

Diversity and Representation

We prioritise diversity and representation in delivering our secondary education programs focused on health and fitness for the mind and body. We offer a range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of students, ensuring that our programs reflect various backgrounds and experiences. By integrating diverse perspectives into our health and fitness initiatives, we create an inclusive environment where every student feels understood and supported. Our commitment to representation enhances the relevance and impact of our programs, helping students from all walks of life achieve their best potential in both mental and physical well-being.

Transform our mentees through group based exercise (strength & conditioning, martial arts, boxing, breathing & yoga) intertwined with conversation based learning, inspirational workshops and aspirational visits from our network of professional & ex professional athletes

Use a multifacted approach that promotes a tailored plan structured for each individual

Enable young people to improve their health & personal awareness, life & social skills & educational engagement while developing discipline, resilience and accountability

Strategically place ourselves in the core between all relative parties i.e the educational institutions, parents/guardians and mentees

Provide a holistic interdependant service, alligned to the needs of our clients, young people and varying partner agencies 

Donations can
change their
lifestyle

Our Testimonials

What They’re Saying?

Paula Knox

Head of Year
Douay Martyrs Secondary School

Healthy Mind Strong Bodies recently came into our school as part of an enrichment week . They led many workshops over the course of a week and they were extremely impressive that they have been invited back. They worked with students from all ethnic backgrounds giving them the boost and insight into what it takes to achieve success and the means to-do it.
They shared their own unique individual stories to motivate and educate our young student body through their life experiences was unforgettable. They were extremely passionate about helping the youth of today achieve their goals through a healthy body and strong mind. ‘Body strong, mind sharp, soul nourished and spirit positive.’
During the sessions “Healthy Body, Strong Mind” emphasizes the fundamental connection between physical health and mental well-being, offering students invaluable guidance on achieving balance in their lives. They passed on a treasure trove of actionable tips, scientific insights, and motivational advice tailored to young learners navigating the challenges of academics and personal growth. Their expertise delved into topics such as nutrition, exercise, stress management, and sleep hygiene. Their content is relatable, with practical examples that emphasis on the role of regular physical activity in enhancing focus and cognitive performance is both inspiring and backed by research.
The group workshops with celebrity guest boxers provided practical and comprehensive strategies and techniques for students aiming to excel academically while maintaining overall well-being.
Healthy Body, Strong Mind serves as a roadmap for students striving to cultivate a harmonious balance between their physical and mental health. I highly recommend booking this group for anyone looking to enhance their productivity and unlock their full potential, they were truly inspiring.
They also have an adult based program for staff members that we are looking forward to welcoming in the near future.

Anton Innocent

Deputy Head Teacher
Bishop Challoner School

A Transformative Partnership: Bishop Challoner Catholic School and Healthy Minds

Bishop Challoner Catholic School in East London had a truly exceptional experience working with Darrell Rabess, CEO of Healthy Minds, and his dedicated team.

Our primary goal was to offer our young boys a fresh perspective, distinct from the traditional voices they typically hear from teachers. We wanted to empower them to excel academically and, more importantly, equip them with the skills to make sound judgments beyond the school gates, especially given the potentially grave choices they might face on the streets if they were to fall in with the wrong crowd.
Healthy Minds delivered a 12-week intervention program for 11-15 year old young boys, focusing on physical, mental, and emotional development through boxing, fitness, shared stories, counselling, challenges, and accountability. The transformation we witnessed was remarkable. Students eagerly arrived at school at 7 AM two days a week, ready to receive positive, lifelong affirmation. They were challenged to reflect on their interactions with peers and teachers, and to consider the potential pitfalls of negative street culture. They were reminded that history can and often does repeat itself if the desire for change isn’t strong enough.
The program garnered significant buy-in from parents, and we observed holistic improvements in the students. Tangible data within the school reinforced the success: attendance and punctuality improved by 18% for the 25 boys who participated. Persistent absence from school was no longer a major concern, and students were consistently completing detentions and classwork. Our students were so invested in their weekly “health and sermon” sessions with the Healthy Minds program that they simply didn’t want to miss out.
As a result of this partnership, our school and our students are much happier. We are eternally grateful for the opportunity to have enrolled in the Healthy Minds program. We extend our warmest wishes to Darrell and his team for the future; we are confident that their profound impact at Bishop Challoner Catholic School can be replicated in other schools as well.
All the best,
Mr. A. Innocent
Deputy Headteacher
Bishop Challoner Catholic School

Obi Ezeigwe

PE & RE Teacher
Salvatorian College

Healthy Mind Strong Bodies recently had an outstanding 8-week programme to a select group of boys at Salvatorian College, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. As both a PE and RE teacher, I witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of their sessions not only did the physical exercises boost the students’ fitness levels, but they also significantly enhanced their cognitive functions. It was remarkable to see improvements in memory, learning capacity, and overall mood, which are all essential for the educational and social development of our youth. I wholeheartedly recommend Healthy Mind Strong Bodies for their innovative approach to integrating physical exercise with cognitive and emotional growth.

Board

Meet Our Board

Darrell Rabess

FOUNDER, CEO & THERAPEUTIC MENTOR

Mr Robinson

Co Founder

Sarah Hayward

Committee Board Member

Portia

Advisory Board Member

Meet Our Team

Sam Antwi

Professional Boxer

Jay Mills

Professional Football Agent

Natalie Charles

Female Specific Mentor, Personal Trainer, Entrepreneur

Khalid Ali

Professional Boxer

Bradley Fifton

Leading Men’s Physique Athlete & Personal Trainer

Jessica Annabel

fitness coach and social worker

Partnering for Impact

How Companies, Organizations, and Donations Can Support Our Mission

Our mission is to empower young people with the skills, confidence, and resilience they need to thrive in today’s world. Through a unique combination of education, motivation, and elevation, we address critical aspects of personal development—from self-awareness and mental well-being to real-world readiness and goal setting. While we’re dedicated to delivering these services to as many young people as possible, we know that achieving our vision requires the support of like-minded partners.

Why Your Support Matters

By partnering with us, companies and organizations play a pivotal role in the lives of young people. Financial contributions and sponsorships enable us to expand our reach, improve our programs, and provide even more resources to those who need them. With your support, we can offer transformative opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach for many. Together, we can help young people set and achieve ambitious goals, building a foundation for their futures and inspiring a new generation of leaders.

The Impact of Partnership

Your support doesn’t just help young people today—it strengthens communities and builds a better future for everyone. By fostering mental and physical wellness, social unity, and personal growth, we create positive ripple effects that extend beyond the classroom. Together, we can drive social mobility, enhance emotional resilience, and prepare youth to meet the world with confidence and clarity.

Join us in making a meaningful difference. Together, we can elevate, educate, and motivate young people to reach their highest potential. 

image-14.jpg

Ways to Get Involved

  1. Corporate Sponsorships and Donations: Financial contributions directly impact the scope and quality of our programs. Donations allow us to fund life coaching, provide physical and mental wellness resources, and organize workshops on critical topics such as gang awareness, peer pressure, and emotional resilience.

  2. Insight Days and Work Experience: Your organization can make a difference by offering insight days and work experience opportunities. By connecting young people with real-world environments, we can elevate their aspirations, broaden their perspectives, and ignite a sense of purpose.

  3. In-Kind Contributions and Volunteering: Donations of services, resources, or time can also be invaluable. From volunteering as mentors to offering facilities or expertise, every contribution helps us build a more supportive and enriching experience for the youth we serve.

Let’s Make a Difference in the Lives of Others