Karima Jackson

Organize Change, Inc.

What inspired you to get involved?
Among values such as family, religion, and education that I was taught growing up, community was also very important. My family modeled active citizenship and civic participation so I learned very early that I have a responsibility to my community.

What keeps you motivated?
I am largely motivated by my passion around social justice and the hard work done by community activists before me like my great aunt who passed away in 2014 at the age of 80. When you realize the sacrifices people like her made for their community, it’s hard not to pull up your sleeves and do your best to fill as much of the big shoes they left behind. I stand on the shoulder of giants and I’m only as good as my awesome team.
What is your hope for the future of your program/organization?

My hope for my organization is that we spur a similar responsibility to community in the youth we work with so they have the tools and the passion to take the torch of leadership in their communities and be the agents of change we need for the future.