Jackson Grown 2025: A New Generation Challenges the City to Grow
May 13, 2025
This year’s Jackson Grown Challenge to the City was more than just a showcase of young talent—it was a bold, public call to action. Thirteen fellows from high schools across Jackson gathered to present their visions for the future of our city. These weren’t just speeches; they were statements of belief, hope, and responsibility, delivered by students who have lived the very challenges they are asking us to confront.
Opening Moments: Setting the Tone
At 10:55 a.m., guests began to settle into their seats while Lisbon set the stage and passed the mic to Jon Mark, who officially welcomed the audience. He was joined by Shea Brown and Matthew Marshall, who both offered powerful opening words on leadership, the importance of youth voice, and the community’s role in supporting the next generation.
Jon Mark then introduced Tosh Newman, the day’s emcee and mentor, who had worked closely with the students over the past year. Tosh reminded us of the purpose behind the event: listening—truly listening—to the leaders of tomorrow.
The Challenge to the City: Voices That Matter
Each student brought a unique story and perspective to the stage. They identified barriers, explored solutions, and called on all of us to do better. Here’s a glimpse into their ideas:
Ja’Vieon Bradley (Senior Fellow, JCM Early College High) opened with “Designing Opportunity: How to Build Platforms for Creative Talent,” encouraging Jackson to nurture and showcase young creatives.
Makigh Woods (Junior Fellow, JCM Early College High) followed with “Home-more: Opening Doors for Serving the Unhoused,” advocating for deeper empathy and structured support for the unhoused population
Paige Marshall (Junior Fellow, JCM Early College High) presented “A Healthy Place: Unique Ways to Address Mental Health Among Youth,” urging for proactive and creative mental health strategies in schools.
Ashton Hart (Junior Fellow, Madison Academic) challenged us with “No More: Our Moral Imperative to Stop Gun Violence,” speaking directly to safety and accountability.
Kemora Edgeston (Junior Fellow, South Side High) emphasized trauma-informed care in her speech “Requisites for Resilience.”
Alfonzo Garcia (Junior Fellow, South Side High) spotlighted the importance of access to driver's education in “Steering Safety.”
Jaycee Taylor (Junior Fellow, South Side High) energized the room with “Inspired Education: Why Student Success Demands a Love of Learning.”
Jacorey Garrett (Senior Fellow, JCM) and London Ansley (Junior Fellow, Madison Academic) teamed up to present “Feeding Minds: School Meals as a Starting Point for Academic Growth.”
Keilan White (Junior Fellow, JCM) delivered “Breathing Room: The Place for Space Among Youth,” advocating for more safe and affirming youth spaces.
Makayla Bond (Senior Fellow, JCM) gave a compelling talk, “Clean Slate: The Link Between Clean Learning Environments and Student Success.”
Dylan Hall (Junior Fellow, JCM) emphasized “The Architecture of Acceptance: Building Support Structures for Improving Mental Health.”
Andy Galindo (Junior Fellow, North Side High) closed the speeches with “Found in Translation: Navigating a Second Language in Real Time.”
Celebrating the Fellows
To conclude, the fellows were honored with Jackson Grown Medals, a symbol of their growth, courage, and leadership throughout the year. Presented by Summer Nichols, this moment reflected not just the completion of a program—but the launch of long-term changemakers.
Why This Matters
Why This Matters The Jackson Grown Leader Fellowship isn’t about theory. It’s about real ideas for real impact. Each of these students identified a pressing issue in Jackson and offered a thoughtful, practical approach to address it.
Their collective message was clear: we are ready to lead—and we need you to listen.
Stay Connected
Follow the journey on social media and our website as these students continue to shape the future of Jackson.