Jahkil Jackson, aged 11, is a young entrepreneur with a heart committed to improving the lives of those less fortunate. His business enterprise, Project I Am, was created to help out homeless individuals living on the streets in his local Chicago area. Inspiring many with his valiant pursuit towards greater equality, Jahkil creates ‘Blessing Bags,’ lessening the burden of homelessness for many. He is an altruistic individual, speaking and motivating other young people to create the same positive change in the world around him.

Encouraged by the light spread by this generous young individual, Kebloom reached out to Jahkil to speak about his brand:

1) How would you best describe Project I Am?

Project I Am is an organization that I founded in order to build awareness about homelessness and to offer short-term solutions for the problem.

“I have had youth from Switzerland, Hong Kong and Ghana reach out to me regarding community involvement.”

2) How old were you when you founded Project I Am?

I was 8 years old when I founded my business.

3) What passions inspired your business idea?

I realized my passion when I was just 5 years old. I used to help feed the homeless on the streets with my aunt.  I had no idea that homeless people even existed and it made me very sad.  This sparked something in me to want to help everyone that I possibly could.

4) What problem were you solving in the creation of Project I Am?

The problem that I am solving is small in comparison to the larger problem.  By creating Blessing Bags filled with toiletry items, I am solving the need for daily essentials but sadly this does not solve the problem as a whole.

“I used to help feed the homeless on the streets with my aunt.  I had no idea that homeless people even existed and it made me very sad. ”

5) Who supported you in creating/building your business?

My family supported me in building up my business.

6) What advice would you give to aspiring social entrepreneurs?

I’d love to tell young people to not wait to be great.  I believe that young people can do anything that we are passionate about, starting now.  

7) To what extent would a platform like Kebloom have helped you achieve your dreams?

 Getting the word out is a great support for my organization.

8) What has been the best part about starting Project I Am?

Being able to see smiles on people's faces makes me happy.  I also love seeing the young people that I inspire doing great things in their communities across the country and world.  I have had youth from Switzerland, Hong Kong and Ghana reach out to me regarding community involvement.

9) What skills did you bring to Project I Am and feel you have developed over time?

The skill of being kind is what I bring to Project I Am.  I am now a motivational speaker, so I have been able to develop my public speaking skills also.

About the Author:

Ellie McRae is the blogger, interviewer and content creator for Kebloom! When she’s not writing kick-ass articles, you’ll find her studying marketing and drinking copious amounts of coffee. Find out more about Ellie here.