Meet Rachelle Houston | Executive Director & Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rachelle Houston and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rachelle, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I am originally from Chicago, IL, but I spent my summers in Alabama with my grandfather, where I learned both golf and entrepreneurship. He owned a roofing company and was the first Black man to own a Par 3 golf course in Selma, AL. During the school year, I was raised by my aunt, a single parent who worked tirelessly to support her son and me. My mother was incarcerated throughout my childhood, and I never knew my father. Time with my grandfather instilled in me discipline, hard work, and faith, while my upbringing with my aunt taught me resilience and perseverance. These experiences shaped who I am today, influencing my values, work ethic, and passion for creating opportunities for others.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Excel Youth Academy is more than just a golf program—it’s a mobile Golf and STEAM academy dedicated to making the game accessible to underserved youth while integrating education, mentorship, and life skills. What sets us apart is our holistic approach. Through our Junior Strokes program, we combine golf with mathematics, art, and culinary education, helping students develop well-rounded skills both on and off the course.

One of our proudest accomplishments is carrying forward the legacy of my grandfather, John A. Lovett, who was the first Black man to own a golf course in Selma, AL. His entrepreneurial spirit and love for golf inspire the foundation of Excel Youth Academy, ensuring that young players—especially those from marginalized communities—have opportunities to learn, compete, and grow.

Getting to where we are today has not been easy. As a nonprofit, funding, resources, and community engagement have been constant challenges. However, through perseverance, strategic partnerships, and unwavering belief in our mission, we’ve been able to expand our reach. We’ve learned that collaboration is key, and with support from organizations like First Tee, PGA Jr, and US Kids Golf, we continue to provide enriching experiences for our students.

The lesson I carry forward is that golf is more than a game—it’s a tool for life. It teaches discipline, patience, and strategy, and through Excel Youth Academy, we ensure that every child who steps onto the course gains not just a swing but a sense of confidence and belonging.

What I want the world to know is that Excel Youth Academy is building future leaders, one swing at a time. We are creating a space where young people can learn, grow, and thrive—regardless of their background. Golf is a game of opportunity, and our mission is to make sure no child is left behind in experiencing its benefits.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week-long trip, I’d make sure they experienced the best of what the area has to offer—great food, golf, culture, and a mix of adventure and relaxation. Here’s how the itinerary would go:

Day 1: Welcome & Relaxation
Morning: Pick them up and start the trip with brunch at Atlanta Breakfast Club—a must for Southern comfort food.
Afternoon: Check into a boutique hotel or Airbnb with a great city view. Then, a relaxing spa session at Jeju Sauna or The Waldorf Astoria Spa for a little self-care after travel.
Evening: Rooftop dinner at The Garden Room or St. Julep to enjoy city views and craft cocktails.
Day 2: Golf & Good Vibes
Morning: Early tee time at Mystery Valley Golf Course, where I host youth programs with Excel Youth Academy.
Afternoon: Grab lunch at Trap Vegan for some healthy but flavorful eats.
Evening: A stop at Puttery Atlanta, a high-end indoor mini-golf spot, followed by drinks at The James Room.
Day 3: Black History & Culture
Morning: Visit The National Center for Civil and Human Rights and take a walk through Auburn Avenue, home of MLK’s legacy.
Afternoon: Brunch at Paschal’s, a historic Black-owned restaurant where civil rights leaders used to meet.
Evening: Catch live music and a cocktail at Apache XLR or an art event at The Gathering Spot (if there’s a private event, I’d try to get us in!).
Day 4: Outdoor Adventure & Chill
Morning: Hike at Stone Mountain or a scenic drive to Amicalola Falls for fresh air and waterfalls.
Afternoon: Stop by South City Kitchen for some shrimp & grits and a taste of Southern charm.
Evening: Wine tasting at Serenbe Farms or a sunset picnic at Piedmont Park.
Day 5: Foodie & Golf Combo
Morning: Breakfast at Le Petit Marché, a cozy spot for fresh croissants and grits bowls.
Afternoon: Play 9 holes at Charlie Yates Golf Course—one of the best short courses in the city.
Evening: A food crawl on the Beltline—grabbing bites from places like Ladybird, Guac y Margys, and Lingering Shade Social Club.
Day 6: Sports & Nightlife
Morning: Check out The Battery at Truist Park for some baseball vibes (or even a Braves game).
Afternoon: BBQ feast at Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q.
Evening: Hit up Slutty Vegan for a late-night snack, then a secret speakeasy like Red Phone Booth for a cool nightcap.
Day 7: Wrap-Up & Brunch
Morning: Final brunch at Breakfast at Barney’s for top-tier vibes and mimosas.
Afternoon: A final stroll through Ponce City Market for last-minute shopping and snacks.
Evening: Drop-off at the airport, sending them home with memories (and maybe some golf swag from Excel Youth Academy as a souvenir!).
This itinerary blends golf, food, culture, and adventure—making sure my best friend leaves feeling like they experienced the best mix of what I love and what the city has to offer!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my husband, two sons, grandfather, and aunt for their unwavering love and support.

Website: https://ExcelYouthAcademy.com

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