Meet Ashanti J. Jackson

We recently connected with Ashanti J. Jackson and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashanti J., appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?

As a founder of a nonprofit organization my resilience is founded on my passion for the cause and the lasting impact we will make in the lives of youth and families in our community. My deep commitment to the mission drives me everyday and develops a strong perseverance, even in challenging times. As a visionary, I have clear, achievable goals for the organization that keeps me focused and motivated, even when facing obstacles. There are many goals we have achieved, but there are some goals that have not been accomplished that have the potential to significantly change the lives of youth. This drives me everyday to reach those goals and see the vision come into reality.

One of the biggest motivations of where my resilience comes from and empowers me to navigate challenging times as a founder is my personal story and experience. Youth sports have always played a pivotal role in shaping who I am as a women. I know the benefits of how youth sports can develop a sense of confidence and focus in youth. I played basketball from the time I was 8 years old to ultimately receiving a Division-1 NCAA Women’s Basketball scholarship. This time in my life kept me focused and away from negative influences and my hopes is to do the same for other youth. We use the game of basketball as a creative tool and foundation to mentor and shape youth in a positive way. We don’t just stop at the basketball court, but use basketball in other areas off the court to sharpen youth and give them an advantage in life.

In general nonprofit work is tough, there are many ups and downs of running a nonprofit. as several resources needed to keep the organization thriving often takes a tenacious fight to gather and obtain. Nonprofit work is boots on the ground, getting your hands dirty, working hard, being where the people are in the neighborhoods and communities. That is not an easy task. My resilience comes from my adaptability and my ability to pivot. In nonprofit work I have to often adjust strategies in response to challenges which helps our organization maintain momentum. I have to foster a learning mindset, viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth which grows my resilience and innovation. Lastly my support networks and community engagement gives me fire to run on. I have built strong relationships with mentors, peers, and volunteers that provide emotional support and practical advice during tough times.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I am a wife to an amazing husband, mother of two beautiful kids, daughter to two strong black intelligent and supportive parents, sister to two world changing siblings, educator, coach, civic and community outreach engager, sports lover, youth sports advocate, God Centered Woman, and founder of a nonprofit organization called Gameface 4:13 Training Academy. Our nonprofit foundation extends into three sectors in order to reach youth: Basketball, Education, and Outreach. We have several programs that train youth having basketball as the foundation to create greater engagement of learning in all three areas of focus. Our organization programs serve youth in three areas: Physical training (basketball camps, clinics, youth leagues, personal training), Mental Training (education- STEM programs, mentorship, life-skills), and Spiritual Training (community outreach, character development, and community service).

Our programs are growing and making a lasting impact for youth in our Jacksonville Community and we would love for all parents in the Jacksonville, FL community to join.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

The three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in my journey are as follows:

1. Perseverance: Having a resilient and steadfast attitude continuously creates major victories in my life. Being a founder you must develop a passion for the cause, have a strong mental toughness, and never quit when it gets hard, because IT WILL . Having a deep commitment to my mission and the opportunity to change lives drives motivation and resilience. This passion helps to inspire others, attract supporters, and maintain focus during challenging times. Not quitting or giving up, but being consistent has created countless wins in my life.

2. Fundraising and Financial Management Skills: Understanding how to secure funding, manage budgets, and allocate resources effectively is crucial. This ensures the sustainability of our organization and its ability to fulfill our mission. We have been able to outsource and walk in excellence at every level of budget. Even if the budget was small we executed and planned appropriately. When the budget was big we executed. Having great management skills have set us up for success and allowed us to receive more every year and grow.

3. Leadership and Communication: Becoming a pioneer is not easy, but requires strong leadership to fosters a positive team culture and guide the organization toward its goals. Effective communication skills are essential for engaging stakeholders, building partnerships, and advocating for the cause. During my nonprofit founding journey I’ve being able to execute consistently and communicate the big vision each year. When other know the big picture, organizational goals and dreams, it allows people to get involved. Additionally, walking in integrity and doing what my organization says it will do, by using the funds appropriately helps us impact more lives.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

Partnering or collaborating with organizations for our youth sports and education nonprofit will be extremely helpful to amplify our impact. We would love to continue to partner with:

Local Schools and Educational Institutions: This will help us integrate sports programs into their curriculum or schools and potentially provide us access to facilities.

Community Centers: These centers often have resources and spaces for sports and educational activities.

Health and Wellness Organizations: They can provide expertise on physical health, nutrition, and mental well-being, enhancing our programs.

Local Businesses and Corporations: Many businesses have corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs and may be willing to sponsor our events or provide funding.

Nonprofits with Similar Missions: Partnering with other organizations focused on youth development, education, or health can lead to shared resources and greater impact.

Colleges and Universities: They often have community outreach programs and may be interested in providing volunteers or internships.

Government Agencies: Local parks and recreation departments or youth services can offer support and resources.

Foundations and Grant-making Organizations: Foundations that focus on youth development or sports education for potential funding opportunities.

Sports Teams and Athletes: Professional or semi-professional teams may be interested in community engagement initiatives.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.gameface413.org
• Instagram: gameface413_ta
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gameface413
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gf413/?viewAsMember=true
• Twitter: gameface413_ta
• Other: tik tok: gameface413_ta

Image Credits

Pictures by @ender_editing