Music, Mentorship, and Momentum: Ozomatli Teams Up with First Serve New Mexico

Music, Mentorship, and Momentum: Ozomatli Teams Up with First Serve New Mexico

A Conversation Rooted in Community

When Ozomatli percussionist Jiro Yamaguchi sat down with First Serve New Mexico Program Director Chris Slakey on KSWV Radio, the conversation felt easy, genuine, and rooted in something bigger than music. It quickly became clear this wasn’t just about a concert—it was about impact, opportunity, and what happens when a community comes together.

More Than Just Tennis

Chris Slakey put it simply: “We’re here to change kids’ lives.” And that heart behind the mission is what drives everything First Serve New Mexico does.

Since 2003, the organization has been working with students across Santa Fe, offering a program that blends tennis instruction, academic tutoring, and life skills development—all at no cost to families. But as Slakey explained during the conversation, the idea was never just to start a tennis program.

“Our founder… she thought that tennis would be a great hook,” he shared, explaining how Eleanor Brenner created the program after seeing challenges in education and wanting to make a difference.

The result is something much bigger than sports—a structured environment where students commit, show up consistently, and build confidence, discipline, and community over time.

Built by Community Support

That growth hasn’t happened alone. Slakey also pointed to the role of community support in expanding what First Serve can offer—especially when it comes to their new home.

“Thanks to the generosity of Scott and Kimberly Sheffield… they funded the construction for our very own tennis and learning center,” he said.

For the first time in the program’s history, students now come together in one central location, with dedicated courts and classrooms that bring everything under one roof. It’s a major step forward for an organization that spent years operating across different parks and schools throughout the city.

And for students, that consistency matters—it strengthens relationships, builds routine, and deepens the overall impact.

A Personal Connection

For Jiro Yamaguchi, the connection to First Serve New Mexico is deeply personal. His daughter joined the program in middle school and is now preparing to graduate, and he’s seen firsthand how much it can shape a young person’s path.

“It’s just such a great program,” he said. “My daughter… it’s taught her so many different things from work habits, discipline, dedication.”

He emphasized that while tennis is part of it, “she’s learned so many other skills through this program,” showing how the experience extends far beyond the court.

Music with a Mission

That kind of impact is exactly why Ozomatli is stepping in to support the program. Known for their high-energy performances and genre-blending sound, the band has always carried a deeper purpose rooted in community.

“We use music as a vehicle to do that,” Yamaguchi said, reflecting on how the band continues to support causes and bring people together.

From their early days organizing community shows in Los Angeles to performing around the world, that mission hasn’t changed—and now it’s making its way to Santa Fe.

The Big Event: What You Need to Know

The benefit concert will take place on May 24 during Memorial Day weekend at Santa Fe Brewing Company’s Bridge venue. Doors open at 6:00 PM, with Baracutanga performing at 6:30 PM, followed by Ozomatli taking the stage around 7:00 to 7:30 PM. Tickets are free, but organizers are asking for a $20 suggested donation to support First Serve New Mexico, and attendees are encouraged to reserve their tickets in advance through Lensic 360 to ensure entry.

A Night That Means More

For First Serve New Mexico, this concert is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a chance to bring the community together in a new way. Instead of a formal gala, this is about showing up, enjoying live music, and learning about a program that’s making a real difference.

For Yamaguchi, it’s also a full-circle moment. As his daughter reaches graduation, he’ll be on stage supporting the very program that helped shape her journey.

“It’s guaranteed to be a good time… support a really good cause… and just enjoy yourself,” he said.

Editor’s Note: This article was written with support from AI-assisted tools to help transcribe, organize, and summarize the conversation accurately. All quotes are drawn directly from the recorded interview. Content was reviewed for clarity and journalistic standards prior to publication.