Our Founders story
A Brotherhood Built on Impact
Athletes Influence Everything (AIE) was founded by Malcolm Johnson Jr. and Elijah McAllister, two former collegiate athletes who met at Auburn University in January 2023. Coming from different backgrounds—Elijah from New Jersey and Malcolm from Maryland—they were drawn together by their intelligence, shared worldviews, and commitment to leadership.
What truly solidified their bond was their shared belief in Kingdom principles and their ability to see the world through a Kingdom perspective. They understood that life is about more than just sports and business—it’s about purpose, stewardship, and maximizing the influence God has given them.
They quickly realized that their connections, experiences, and knowledge positioned them to empower the younger generation. With a heart for service, they founded AIE to equip athletes with the tools to build wealth, protect their influence, and create lasting success beyond the game.
Elijah McAllister
Hometown: New Jersey
Specialization: Community & Education
Elijah is a natural leader passionate about mentorship, education, and community development. His mission is to equip young athletes with the knowledge, resources, and confidence they need to thrive not just on the field, but in life.
Founder of All4:1and1ForAll Foundation
-
Beyond AIE, Elijah leads the All41andOneForAll Foundation, an organization dedicated to:
-
Developing youth athletically and academically
-
Building confidence and mental health awareness
-
Providing equitable access to resources and opportunities
-
Partnering with organizations to uplift communities
-
The foundation’s mission is rooted in faith based principles, guiding young people toward becoming responsible, community-minded adults while reaching their full potential.
Hometown: Maryland
Specialization: Business & Entrepreneurship
Malcolm has always had a vision for business and financial independence. He specializes in teaching athletes how to leverage their influence, secure opportunities, and build generational wealth. His focus is on helping athletes think beyond their playing careers and step into roles as business owners and brand leaders.
Founder of Start a Conversation
Malcolm is also the creator of Start a Conversation, a movement designed to:
-
Encourage face-to-face conversations and genuine human connection
-
Promote civility, empathy, and social engagement
-
Combat social isolation and mental health struggles, especially among Gen Z
-
Through this movement, Malcolm challenges people to step away from digital distractions and rebuild real-world relationships—one conversation at a time.
