Jim Beatty, founder of the African American Golf EXPO and Forum announced that Malachi and Essie Knowles will be the 2026 Co-chairs of the 2026 African American Golf EXPO and Forum “Sock Drive!”
Malachi Knowles, known for his passion to celebrate the historical accomplishments of the African American Golfers and advocate for the success of youth in golf & education and his wife, Essie established the African American Golfers Hall of Fame in 2004. Their vision was to create an organization that honors the past and inspires future generations of African Americans in golf. The Knowles’ dedication to this cause stems from their deep love for the game and their desire to see it become more inclusive and representative of all persons.
This dedication has propelled them to build a state-of-the-art structure, “the African American Golfers Museum and Inner-City Youth Golfers Clubhouse” located at 125 W. 13th Street, Riviera Beach, FL. (www.icyg.org)
Their efforts have highlighted the achievements of African American golfers and fostered a greater appreciation for diversity within the sport. An historic example in many ways, Mr. Knowles is the Founder & President of Inner-City Youth Golfers’, Inc. (ICYG) and a member of the Palm Beach County Sports Hall of Fame. Essie is Executive Director of ICYG. Attendees to the EXPO are encouraged to bring and donate socks which will be donated to the homeless in the Orlando area. This is the second year of the sock drive program with over 200 pair having been donated to the Salvation Army in the first year of the program.
About the EXPO
The mission of this event is to educate and inform African Americans about the jobs, careers, and business opportunities in the $102 Billion Golf industry. African Americans represent less than 3% of the industry. The EXPO started in 2021 and has been held in Atlanta, GA, Charlotte, NC, Louisville, KY and West Palm Beach, FL. Over 2000 people have attended with an economic impact approaching $2M. The EXPO founder and organizer is Jim Beatty, CEO of Jim Beatty Golf Ventures. The EXPO 2026 dates are Jan 21 – 24, in Orlando, Fl at the Orange County Convention Center collocated with the PGA Show and at the Dubsdread Golf Course. Free to attend the EXPO. Free for those wanting to go to the Exhibits only. Adults 21 and over. Everyone must register. Website: www.aagolfexpo.com.