About Shaun

Mr. Shaun Banks' unwavering dedication to youth development ignited 20 years ago when he started teaching martial arts at after-school programs around Metro Atlanta, a passion that led to the establishment of I Am Defense Martial Arts. This commitment was further manifested in the creation of Camp Warrior King (CWK), a summer camp program that encourages fun and fosters learning through extracurricular activities. Since its inception in 2013, CWK has been a beacon of inspiration for thousands of families.

Shaun’s childcare programs have provided a fun haven for children and birthed resources that empower parents in their youth development journey. These resources include Success Stacks, a tool to enhance children's self-efficacy; the “You Can Have It ALL” motivational Youth Conferences; and the Team Hott Sawce Cartoons. Shaun's two child-motivation and parenting books, Persevere Overcome Win, and Raising Extraordinary Kids, have been instrumental in guiding parents. In 2019, Shaun's vision extended to opening the first You Can Have It ALL orphanage in Bombo, Uganda, East Africa, a testament to his global impact.

Mr. Banks is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated. He is an outdoor enthusiast who loves fishing, hiking, hunting, and watersports. The occasional–and self-proclaiming grill master, Shaun enjoys cooking, spending time with his family and friends, watching comedies, traveling, and living a life of happiness and adventure.

About Sharon

Mrs. Sharon Manning’s passion for teaching children and love for the outdoors began over 50 years ago. She started her journey in education as a college student working with neighborhood children in the City Parks of Denver, Colorado. She has always believed that “Children learn by doing.”

A trailblazer in medical science, Sharon was involved in cancer research at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, WA, and helped develop the first lining for the artificial heart at the Hope Heart Institute.

Sharon has several degrees, including a Biology degree and a Master's degree in Urban Teacher Leadership. In 1992, she designed her first summer program, Education Excellence, in Atlanta.

For 30 years, Sharon Manning has been a beacon of inspiration as a Life Science teacher for Atlanta and Clayton County Public Schools. Her impact extends far beyond the classroom, as she has dedicated her time to various mentoring and afterschool programs, including Morehouse College and the I Have A Dream program. Her unwavering commitment to education and mentorship is a testament to her belief in every student's potential, inspiring all who come into contact with her.

Sharon has been a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated for 46 years. As the Director of Curriculum and activities for Camp Warrior King, Sharon spends her time researching and planning activities and cooking, which has kept her excited and ready to go. She also enjoys traveling, gardening, swimming, reading, and praising God.