Daily Inspiration: Meet Danaea Benton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Danaea Benton.

Hi Danaea, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My name is Danaea Benton I am a former pro basketball player. That launched my own positive sportwear line gear initially towards girls in basketball. Now my apparel reached both boys and girls beyond basketball. I also launched Naetivate Basketball Training and have trained over 150 kids.
My story is unique, because I was very close to make it to the WNBA and use my journey to impact youth in basketball.

I also have a nonprofit called Yes Enrichment Services where I conduct free basketball camps to give back to my home town Kalamazoo, Michigan. Through our nonprofit we all starting the Naetivate Reads Program which is a Reading Initiative that encourages reading and the important of literacy: We have serviced 500 kids with read a kings, read and play. We also tie physical activity and daily exercises to daily reading routines.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of the biggest challenges has been building multiple businesses and community programs while still working a full-time job and funding much of the vision myself. There have been seasons where I questioned whether the sacrifices, long hours, and financial risks would pay off. Growing Naetivate Training, Naetivate Sportswear, and YES Enrichment Services has required consistency, resilience, and learning how to wear many hats at once — trainer, mentor, entrepreneur, marketer, and leader.

Another challenge has been learning how to scale strategically instead of simply working harder. Early on, I was doing everything myself, from training athletes to designing apparel, organizing camps, handling social media, and managing operations. I also faced obstacles with limited funding, balancing family and business responsibilities, and overcoming moments of self-doubt. However, every challenge strengthened my faith, discipline, and vision.

Through it all, I’ve continued to push forward because I know the impact this work has on young people and the community. Those obstacles helped shape my purpose and taught me the importance of perseverance, structure, and building something bigger than myself.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m Danaea “Coach Nae” Benton, founder of Naetivate Training, Naetivate Sportswear, and YES Enrichment Services. I specialize in youth basketball development, mentorship, motivation, and community impact. Through training, camps, clinics, apparel, and speaking, my goal is to inspire young people to believe in themselves both on and off the court.

I’m known for combining skill development with mentorship and mindset training. I believe sports can teach discipline, confidence, leadership, resilience, and life skills that extend far beyond basketball. My training style focuses not only on player development, but also on building character, accountability, and mental toughness.

In addition to training athletes, I’ve worked to build platforms that positively impact the community. Through YES Enrichment Services and Naetivate initiatives, I’ve organized free youth camps, reading and enrichment programs, mentorship opportunities, and motivational experiences designed to encourage and uplift youth. I’m especially passionate about creating opportunities for young girls and underserved communities.

What I’m most proud of is continuing to build and grow these organizations while staying authentic to my mission and purpose. I’ve been fortunate to be recognized for my work, including being featured in Voyage Ohio Magazine, but the greatest reward is seeing young people grow in confidence and realize their potential.

What sets me apart is that I genuinely care about the people I serve. My work is rooted in purpose, positivity, and perseverance. I’m not just building a business — I’m building a movement centered around motivation, empowerment, and impact.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Yes, trust yourself. Keep your dreams and purpose in the forefront and don’t ever stop believing in that dream. Find mentors, ask questions and get in the environments that align with your dream. Start with what you have and keep doing the work and the resources and people will come on your path. But never stop doing the work.

Pricing:

• Sportswear prices range $15- 45
• Training prices: $25 – $65

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Naetivate.com
• Instagram: Naetivate_
• Facebook: HallofFamer Nae