About Naeem
The man behind
The Men’s Group.
Life coach, speaker, and founder — but before any of that, a kid from Berkeley learning what it means to become a man.
His story
From the court to The Men’s Group.
Naeem Hopkins is a life coach, speaker, entrepreneur, and co-founder of The Men’s Group in Oakland, California. Founded during the height of the pandemic, the group grew from a simple yet powerful revelation: when a man matures in faith, character, and leadership, the impact reaches far beyond himself — elevating his family, his relationships, and his entire community.
His leadership journey began on the basketball court. Serving consistently as team captain throughout middle and high school, he developed an early passion for guiding others both on and off the court. He continued honing these skills at San Francisco State University, where he served as a peer mentor supporting over 75 students each semester while completing his studies. Naeem then became a Program Coordinator at Berkeley Youth Alternatives (BYA), where he directed the mentorship program and co-led an on-site boys group. These foundational experiences across athletics, higher education, and youth development deepened his understanding of human potential and inspired him to dedicate his career to human development and coaching.
Today, Naeem brings the same dedicated heart posture to every individual he coaches. Whether training firefighters, doctors, and EMTs, or guiding his weekly men’s group, he meets people exactly where they are and walks alongside them toward who they are called to be — through 1-on-1 coaching, live speaking, and a community of men committed to growing together.
What he believes
The convictions behind the work.
- Character is built before it’s needed — not in the moment of crisis.
- Faith is the foundation of the work, not an accessory to it.
- Men grow faster in brotherhood than they do alone.
- Leadership starts with leading yourself — at home, first.
Background
Where the work comes from.
The Men’s Group
A men’s group in Oakland, California — honest conversation, accountability, and faith, together.
Be Well Men’s 70 Day Devotional
Seventy days to help men reconnect with God and themselves. Paperback, 160 pages.
Get the Book →Berkeley Youth Alternatives
Years spent pouring into young people through BYA — the roots of his mentorship work today.
San Francisco State University
Alum — and, before that, a Berkeley High School basketball player.
Let’s talk
Ready to start the conversation?
Whether it’s 1-on-1 coaching, bringing Naeem to speak, or a seat in The Men’s Group — it starts here.
Book a Conversation