Matumaini "Matu" Taylor

Matumaini “Matu” Taylor is a Los Angeles native, ordained pastor, nonprofit leader, and author whose life’s work centers on faith, youth development, and community transformation. She currently serves as the  Executive Director of Stars, a Christ-centered youth and family-serving nonprofit in Pasadena, California, where she leads with vision, compassion, and a deep commitment to helping young people and families thrive. She is representing the DeVos Urban Leadership Initiative (DVULI) in the CityCollective webinar series.

Matu transitioned into this role after serving as Pastor of High School and College-Age Ministries at Faithful Central Bible Church in Inglewood, where she faithfully shepherded and equipped students during critical seasons of growth and transition. Prior to that, she spent seven years as a bi-vocational youth minister at Judson Baptist Church, while simultaneously working full time with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, a season that sharpened her ability to bridge faith, systems, and community impact.

In addition to her pastoral and nonprofit leadership, Matu served as the Los Angeles City Coordinator for the DeVos Urban Leadership Initiative (DVULI) in 2019, helping to develop, connect, and encourage leaders committed to urban ministry and community change. She has designed youth ministry curriculum and implemented innovative strategies that have strengthened programs within churches, community-based organizations, and government entities.

Matu holds a Bachelor of Arts from Morris Brown College, a Master of Divinity from The King’s Seminary, and a Certificate of Youth Ministry from Fuller Seminary. She is known for her collaborative leadership, practical wisdom, and heart for the next generation. When she’s not serving, you can usually find her enjoying her family, or exploring.

Connect with her on social media @matubelieves.