Gerrel Sayles, M.S.Ed.
Founder
Chief SOUL Officer
Education Playmaker
Speaker
(01)
Conferences
(02)
Workshops
(03)
About the Founder
Gerrel D. Sayles, M.S.Ed.
Gerrel Sayles is a proud first-generation college graduate with a B.A. in Sociology from California State University, Long Beach, and a Master of Science in Higher Education from California State University, Fullerton—both earned debt-free. His work in education is rooted in lived experience and guided by a commitment to being the mentor, advocate, and representation he once needed while navigating higher education.
Gerrel’s journey began mentoring youth through City of Long Beach afterschool programs, summer camps, and travel basketball, which led him into college access work with the USC College Advising Corps. There, he supported over 500 underserved students at Jordan High School. His professional experience spans K–12 and higher education, including roles at Long Beach City College, UC Berkeley, Compton College, and Building College Success, where he currently serves as Director of the College Access Program.
As a Black male educator and first-generation professional, Gerrel centers culturally responsive, identity-affirming work for Men of Color and Black students. Through storytelling, dialogue, and community-centered practice, he supports students from access to persistence—helping them move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
“Make sure your desire survives through the fire…better move like you know what your purpose is.”
- Montana of 300 ( Rapper)
Reviews
“We Loved Having You!”
Mr. Gerrel spoke to black and brown 4th graders about their identity.
School Administrators said "We loved having Mr. Gerrel come in today! We'd love to have him back anytime."
Antonio B. (Compton)
Gerrel is an energetic, insightful, and relatable presenter who brings the higher education experience to life through an intersectional lens. His workshops and presentations blend creativity with substance drawing audiences in with engaging delivery and leaving them inspired through wisdom and depth. I highly recommend inviting him to your campus or organization.
Jesse E. (CSU YMOC)
Gerrell was part of our inaugural YMOC Fellows Program, and he was an incredible asset to the cohort. His insights, collaborative spirit, and passion for advancing issues affecting men of color greatly enriched our learning community. He also presented at our statewide conference and delivered a high-energy opening session to more than 600 students and professionals.
Felipe M (CSUF)
As the facilitator for our monthly Barbershop Talks, Gerrel has been outstanding. He is engaging, thoughtful, and creates presentations that are super relatable. It has been nothing but a positive experience for both students and professionals during his presentations. We welcome the opportunity to continue to work with him.
"Every student has a SOUL story - and when we speak, the room listens."
Get Inspired
Empower students to explore themselves in safe yet challenging spaces
SOUL by Sayles Education delivers culturally grounded, identity-centered, and theory-informed programming designed to empower students, strengthen educational communities, and equip practitioners with meaningful engagement strategies. Our work is rooted in belonging, mental well-being, brotherhood, and leadership identity.
Email
info@soulbysayles.com
Location
Based in Southern California
Serving U.S.A.
500+
Students and Practitioners Engaged
15+
Workshops, Trainings, & Conferences
4+
Higher Education Systems
Outcomes
Growth. Intelligence. Connection.
