Roderick “Rod” Mack is a proud native son of Miami Gardens ( by way of Myrtle Grove). His story is built on the foundation of love and deep faith instilled by the people who raised him—primarily the steady guidance of his grandmother and the ambitious support of his young parents. His upbringing wasn't always easy, but it taught him the power of perseverance and the absolute necessity of community. He wasn't just raised in Miami Gardens; he was forged by its culture, learning early what it means to hustle, to lead, and to never forget where he came from. The values he carries and his passion for serving others are all native to the heartbeat of this community.
His hustle and leadership began at an early age. Rod was a childhood football standout. He began his love for football at North Dade Bulldogs, which led him to Monsignor Edward Pace High School, where Rod was a scholar-athlete who used the field and the classroom to carve out opportunity. He ranked among the top 50 players in Florida, earned multiple All-Dade and All-State honors, and was recognized as team captain and Most Valuable Defensive Player. His achievements extended beyond the gridiron as he was honored as a National Football Foundation Scholar Athlete in 1995 and later inducted into his alma mater’s Hall of Fame in 2016.
Rod took those lessons and his discipline to the University of Miami, where he played as a starting linebacker and four-year letterman. He graduated with dual degrees in Business Management and Finance, laying the foundation for a career that would merge his love for finance and community empowerment.
Rod began his professional life on Wall Street, working at Prudential Financial as a Financial Advisor. But he soon realized his purpose was bigger than corporate success—it was about sharing that knowledge back home. Driven by a commitment to give back, he returned to Miami to launch Onyx Financial Management Group, an advisory firm helping professional athletes and their families build wealth through smart financial planning and education.
Rod’s proudest legacy, however, is built on the sidelines. In 2010, he helped co-found the Miami Gardens Ravens Youth Football Academy. Built on mentorship, accountability, and love, it has grown into the largest and most successful volunteer program in the city. Under his leadership as President, the Ravens have:
Won 16 National Championships
Produced 150+ major collegiate athletes
Delivered life-changing mentorship to thousands of young boys and girls
This program is touted as the most nationally recognized youth football program in America. Its impact has also gained international recognition, leading to Rod being invited to Brazil in 2025 to help launch a new youth football initiative modeled after the Miami Gardens Ravens, proving his vision transcends borders.
Rod is also a beloved family man, a respected entrepreneur, and a 2021 Orange Blossom Classic board member, where he helped elevate HBCU sports and cultural programming in South Florida.
Now, Rod is stepping forward to serve the community that poured into him. His decision to run for City Council Seat 4 comes from a deep love for Miami Gardens and a belief that real change starts at the grassroots level. His campaign is more than a candidacy; it’s a call to action.
“I’m running because I’ve lived the challenges, seen the gaps, and I know that real solutions start right here, in the community,” says Rod. “It’s time to put our community first—on the field, in our neighborhoods, and at City Hall.”
With your support, we can bring “A Game Plan for a Brighter Future” to life for our families, our businesses, and the next generation of leaders.