Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jason Anderson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Jason , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
In the heart of the Mississippi Delta, where my roots run deep, I witnessed the transformative power of education firsthand. Raised by first-generation college graduates, my parents defied the odds, breaking free from the shackles of poverty. Their journey fueled my passion for knowledge and set me on a path to discover my purpose.
As I reflect on my upbringing, the spirit of entrepreneurship embedded in my great grandfather Willie Miller Sr. serves as a beacon. Despite having only a 1st-grade education, he thrived as a business owner, leaving an indelible mark on me. It was this fusion of business acumen and the profound impact of education that laid the foundation for my calling.
The crucible of my experiences, coupled with the close-knit fabric of the minority community in Mississippi, shaped my vision. I found my purpose in the intersection of entrepreneurship and education—a dynamic duo capable of empowering individuals and entire communities. My goal is not just success for myself, but a ripple effect that paves the way for generational wealth.
In the pursuit of this purpose, I am driven by a desire to uplift and educate, drawing inspiration from the resilience of my family and the entrepreneurial spirit of my great grandfather. The Mississippi Delta may be known for its blues, but I am determined to create a brighter arrangement for communities around the country.
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?
Passion for community has always been the driving force behind my journey. I firmly believe that the financial well-being of a community is intricately linked to issues like hunger, crime, and overall mental and physical health. As the Chief Executive Officer of “The Dream Commission,” my focus is on translating this belief into impactful change.
At the core of our mission is the implementation of strategic financial literacy programs, aptly named “Dream Summits,” inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King’s vision of providing ‘boots to the bootless.’ Our initiatives extend across communities and institutions throughout the United States. Working closely with municipalities and higher education institutions, we organize empowering events designed to offer continuous education resources, covering crucial aspects like entrepreneurship, investing, equity, and mental well-being.
In the pivotal year of 2023, The Dream Commission hosted its largest “Dream Summit” in Memphis, TN, attracting over 800 registrants. This milestone event featured influential speakers, including former Fox Soul GM James Dubose, two-time Grammy Winner and Mogul Sir The Baptist, Forbes Business Council member, Entrepreneur and Social Media Icon Milan Harris, among others.
Looking ahead to 2024, we are actively seeking applications for speakers and sponsors for the next Dream Summit. Our goal is clear: to perpetuate the paradigm shift from merely dreaming to taking meaningful action. Through collaborative efforts and the collective wisdom of our distinguished speakers, we aim to foster lasting change and empower communities across the nation. The Dream Commission is not just an organization; it’s a catalyst for transformation, and we invite those who share our vision to join us on this impactful journey.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The foundation of my success rests on three key qualities: fearlessness, a relentless pursuit of knowledge, and a keen understanding of the power of networks and team building. For those aspiring to foster a similar environment of growth, my advice is rooted in a fundamental shift in perspective.
To truly embrace success, discard the notion that certain endeavors are impossible. Those who claim it can’t be done are rarely the ones achieving the extraordinary. Instead of accepting limitations, challenge yourself with a powerful question: how can it be done? Your mindset is the ultimate weapon in overcoming obstacles and unlocking new possibilities.
Equally essential is the role of continuous learning. Be a sponge, absorbing insights and seeking mentors or resources that expand your skillset. Two books that have profoundly impacted my mindset are “Who Moved My Cheese?” by Spencer Johnson and “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki, both challenging conventional thinking about change and financial paradigms.
Lastly, while it may sound cliché, the significance of your network cannot be overstated. Building alliances and being an advocate are not just business strategies; they are pathways to personal and professional advancement. Instead of approaching others with a handout for your goals, flip the script. Ask yourself, “How can I be of assistance or advocate for the resources I desire?” The reciprocity that stems from genuine collaboration and support will propel you further than intellect alone in many cases.
In essence, success is not just about individual prowess; it’s about embracing a fearless mindset, a commitment to constant learning, and the recognition that the strength of your network is an indispensable asset. This is the formula that has propelled me forward, and I encourage others to adopt this transformative approach on their journey to success.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
In my journey, key figures like my parents Eddie and Cerita Anderson, corporate mentors Joseph Trevino, Karen Arrington, and Dr. Maurice Cavitt, and City of Memphis Senior Financial Literacy Co-Ordinator Dr. Edmund Ford Jr. have been instrumental in realizing my dreams. Alongside my business partner Justin Crosby and a dedicated team, their collective guidance has shaped a collaborative path to success. Each one is a vital thread in the rich tapestry of my aspirations to mobilize generational wealth for minority communities on a national scale through “Dream Summits” and “The Dream Commission.”
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thedreamcommission.org
- Instagram: hardworkapproved
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=56801298&mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-anderson-1a658894/
Image Credits
Clyde Sims, Jr.
