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Mahdi Chambers:
​A Legacy of Innovation and Empowerment

engineer, entrepreneur, and visionary founder
​(1959-2025)
In the nonprofit world of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education, workforce initiatives, and entrepreneurship programs, Mahdi Chambers stood as a beacon of hope and transformation. A gentle giant with a heart as vast as his intellect, Mahdi’s life was a testament to the power of vision and dedication. As the founder and executive director of the Hack & Hustle Social Entrepreneurship Academy, he transformed the lives of numerous young individuals in underserved communities, with a lens toward Charlotte’s Opportunity Zones, equipping them with the skills and entrepreneurial mindset needed to excel in today’s fast-paced world.
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a journey of excellence and innovation
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Mahdi’s illustrious career began at Bell Labs, where his work as an electrical engineer and manager placed him at the cutting edge of technological advancement. His transition to the world of venture-backed startups ignited a passion for entrepreneurship that would define his career. As President of Jecha Networks, Inc., Mahdi didn’t just build businesses, he crafted opportunities, helping aspiring business owners and entrepreneurs turn dreams into reality.
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In 2017, Mahdi took a bold step by establishing Hack & Hustle Academy as a self-funded nonprofit in Charlotte. With a vision to transform the lives of marginalized youth, he created a dynamic platform that offered STEM-based education, workforce development skills essential for securing employment, and entrepreneurial programs to foster self-employment. By 2018, Hack & Hustle Academy had evolved into a certified 501 c 3 nonprofit organization, steadfastly pursuing its mission to open doors for underserved youth in Charlotte, embodying Mahdi's commitment to empowerment and innovation.
the heartbeat of a mentor
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​Mahdi’s true calling was empowering underserved youth in Charlotte, NC. His wisdom and guidance resonated throughout Charlotte, where he served as an Accountability Coach at City Startup Labs and a mentor for the Charlotte Housing Authority Scholarship Fund (CHASF). At Hack & Hustle Academy, his leadership in STEM, workforce development initiatives, and entrepreneurship programs inspired a generation to dream big and hustle harder.
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continuing the legacy​
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​Though Mahdi is no longer with us, his vision and spirit continue to guide Hack & Hustle Academy. We honor his legacy by continuing his mission: to empower underserved youth with STEM education, workforce development tools, and an entrepreneurial mindset they need to forge their own paths. In 2026, we aim to expand our reach, ensuring Mahdi’s vision for youth empowerment flourishes beyond our expectations.
support the MAHDI CHAMBERS MEMORIAL FUND
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In tribute to his enduring legacy, the Chambers family has established the Mahdi Chambers Memorial Fund. This fund is dedicated to expanding the reach and impact of Hack & Hustle Academy, ensuring Mahdi’s dream for our youth remains vibrant for generations to come. 
HONOR MAHDI CHAMBERS: THE HACK & HUSTLE MEMORIAL FUND.
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  • Home
  • The Program
  • Registration
  • About Us
    • HHA Founder
    • Board of Directors
    • Community Engagement Team
  • Gallery
  • Donate
  • Contact Us