I was 32 years old when my whole world turned upside down. My
diagnosis came back as bipolar. How could this be? I was a college
graduate, married, playing semi-pro basketball, and standing tall
at 6’8". Mental illness is a topic that is both mysterious and often
taboo, especially in the African American community. 15 years
later, I now stand tall as a role model to my daughters. I know
firsthand what it’s like to watch my life burn down and what it’s
like to rise from the ashes again and again. I'm committed to
sharing my story with others as a lifeline of hope amidst difficult
circumstances. People are naturally drawn to me from all walks of
life because of my tall stature. Whether I’m speaking to an
audience of high school students, college athletes or corporations,
I’m honored to bring a message of hope of resilience.
About Me
- Who i am
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Leadership & Community
- wHAT I DO
- Speaking
- In Your Own Voice Certified Speaker, NAMI.org
- Inspirational Speaker | Focusing on spiritual enrichment, life skills, and academic/athletic integrity
- The Black Collective | Contributor to education strategies, social justice issues, and political activism
- Community
- Mentoring and Coaching | College applicants
Speaking Topics
I’ve committed to sharing my story with others as a lifeline of hope amidst difficult circumstances.
- Mental Health Advocacy
- Inspiring youth to overcome adversity through perseverance. Empowering them to excel both academically and athletically.
- Academic/Athletic Integrity
- Providing key spiritual principles for surviving life's set backs and overcoming seasons of struggle.
- Spiritual Enrichment
"I have had the privilege of hearing Jajuan speak for several years at my summer basketball camp for kindergarten through eighth grade students at Life Christian Academy. Jajuan is an amazing speaker and was easily able to capture the attention of youth. He is an amazing motivator and connects with kids at their level. Every summer he was the campers favorite speaker and challenged them to give their best effort and never give up! I would highly recommend Jajuan for any role working with kids!"
Mark Lovelady
Principal
"Desmond Tutu said, "Hope is being able to see there is light despite all of the darkness." I had lost any ability to see even a glimmer of light as I was watching my son decline while his mind was telling him lies. Then I attended a presentation that Jajuan gave. Listening to him tell his story was as if someone turned the lights back on. For me, Jajuan was a light during one of the darkest times in my life."
Cynthia Macklin
Attorney at law
Testimonials