2021 Fellow Focus: Shawon Jackson + Vocal Justice
Public speaker, social innovator, CEO/Founder…2021 Fellow Shawon Jackson of Vocal Justice shares more about his #RuthlessForGood journey.
What propelled you into the entrepreneurial space? And what do you enjoy most about being a founder?
I entered the entrepreneurial space because of my passion for social justice. Old ways of thinking are not driving us towards social equity. Bold, innovative thinking, which is the bedrock of social entrepreneurship, can help bring our world a bit closer to justice. That's something I wanted to be a part of. As a founder, I love that I'm not in this alone. There's a strong community of justice-oriented entrepreneurs who love on, encourage, and push each other. I'm grateful that I get to learn from so many like-minded individuals who are navigating similar struggles and committed to the long-term journey of achieving social justice.
Tell me about an experience you had as an entrepreneur or in starting your company that exemplified one of Camelback's core values: "Belief in Mission + Vision"; "Unafraid of Failure"; "Constant Learner"; "Humble + Hungry"; and "Give First."
My venture, Vocal Justice, is focused on supporting what we call undervalued Black and Brown youth - students who are not viewed as "high potential" because they are underperforming academically and not involved in leadership activities. When promoting our culturally affirming public speaking program to school leaders, I often get asked to work with students who are already succeeding academically and leading student groups. While I firmly believe that every student can benefit from our program, I want to prioritize those who are not being reached already. Through conversation, I explain this rationale to school leaders so they get a better sense of our focus. I want to make sure we reach the student who has incredible potential, but is too often overlooked and undervalued. That's where we can make the biggest change.
As a BIPOC founder, Camelback understands that the struggle is constant, what motivates you to get up every day and keep on fighting?
I get up every day and keep fighting because the alternative is the status quo, which is something I can't settle for. I've seen and experienced firsthand oppressive forces that hinder the potential of brilliant individuals. We must change that.
What's your favorite book or podcast that you draw entrepreneurial inspiration from?
Book: Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson
Bryan Stevenson is one of my greatest role models. He's dedicated his career to supporting individuals who have suffered in the U.S. criminal legal system - and he approaches his work with the incredible grace and compassion. I'm also inspired by his focus on proximity - the idea that to advance social justice, you have to work in partnership with those who have experienced injustice firsthand; community-driven insights lead to the best type of change.
Why did you choose to embark on the Camelback Fellowship? And what do you hope to gain from this experience?
I had the pleasure of meeting several Camelback fellows before applying, and I was blown away by their passion for social justice, humility, and dynamic personalities. I left each conversation feeling energized to continue my work. The opportunity to be part of a community filled with these types of individuals, who are navigating similar struggles as founders from historically excluded groups, is one I couldn't overlook. More than anything, I hope to gain a family from this experience. I want to have a crew of people I can celebrate highs with, and turn to when the lows get too low for me to handle on my own. I'm confident that by the end of the fellowship, a strong family will form.
I've been dreaming of being part of the #CamelbackFam for years. I can't believe it's finally happening, and I'm so grateful to be here.
You can learn more about ➡ Shawon Jackson of Vocal Justice.
Get to know more of the 2021 Camelback Fellows👇🏽