Seventeen-year-old Isaiah Malik Kwadwo Smith is steadily making a name for himself both on and off the golf course. Born in Orlando, Florida, Smith is currently an 11th-grade student at Apopka High School, where he balances academics, athletics, and leadership opportunities while pursuing his passion for golf.
Smith’s journey in golf began remarkably early. Introduced to the game by his father at just three years old, he quickly developed a love for the sport that continues to shape his life today. Over the years, he has refined his skills through practice, competition, and family support. Now playing to a 5.3 handicap, Smith competes regularly in junior tournaments and represents both his high school team and several youth golf organizations.
“I was exposed to golf at three years old by my father,” Smith said. “What started as something fun to do together quickly became something I really loved and wanted to get better at.”
Smith is an active member of the Orlando Minority Youth Golf Association (OMYGA) and the Apopka High School golf team. In addition, he competes in tournaments organized by the United Golfers Association, the Jim Thorpe Association, U.S. Kids Golf, and the Claret Junior Golf Tour. These competitive experiences have allowed him to measure his game against talented players from across the region while continuing to build confidence on the course.
Golf is also a family affair in the Smith household. Isaiah regularly plays rounds with his father, mother, and brother, often participating in weekly rounds organized through OMYGA. Those family rounds are both competitive and supportive, creating an environment where improvement and enjoyment go hand in hand.
“My dad, brother, and I usually play nine to eighteen holes every Sunday,” Smith said. “It’s always competitive, but it’s also a great way for us to spend time together. I’ve been winning lately with scores as low as 76 for 18 holes and 35 for nine.”
While golf plays a major role in his life, Smith is also developing important life skills through community programs and leadership opportunities. One of those experiences is his participation as a “Distinguished Gentleman” honoree in the 19th Annual Eminence Gala sponsored by the Orange County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The program offers young men mentorship, personal development, and educational experiences designed to prepare them for future leadership roles.
According to Smith, the program has provided valuable opportunities to grow both socially and personally. “Being part of the Eminence experience gave me a unique opportunity to learn life skills and meet people from different schools,” he explained. “I attended seminars on money management, etiquette, and even a cooking class where I learned to make banana pudding from scratch.”
The program concludes with a formal gala event that includes a dinner, dance, and presentation of participants. For Smith, the experience is both exciting and a little nerve-wracking.
“I’m excited to try something new, but I’m also a little nervous because we have to perform a choreographed dance,” he said with a smile. “I just hope I do my part and make everyone look good.”
Through it all, Smith credits his parents for being the driving force behind his development as a golfer and a young leader. From attending tournaments to supporting his training and equipment needs, they have remained committed to helping him pursue his goals.
“My parents are my biggest supporters,” Smith said. “They always encourage me to practice, stay calm under pressure, and push myself outside of my comfort zone.”
Looking ahead, Smith hopes to continue improving his golf game while preparing for the next stage of his education. His long-term goal is to attend a major college or university on both a golf and academic scholarship. Potential academic interests include finance, business, cybersecurity, or health promotion.
Outside of school and golf, Smith maintains a well-rounded lifestyle. He enjoys playing video games, drawing, listening to music, shopping, and staying active in fitness. He is also a member of his school’s track team and participates in several 5K races each year alongside his mother.
“I’m grateful for every opportunity that comes my way,” Smith said. “My parents taught me not to be afraid to try new things. I hope to keep developing my skills in golf and one day play at the college level.”
With talent, determination, and a strong support system behind him, Isaiah Malik Kwadwo Smith is clearly on a path filled with promise both on the fairways and far beyond them.
