Matriarchs from our Community

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My mom is a remarkable individual whose life exemplifies resilience and the profound impact of maternal love. Having faced significant adversity, including domestic abuse, she has emerged as a pillar of strength while raising eight children. Her journey is a testament to her intelligence and determination; she graduated from high school at the age of 16, a feat that laid the groundwork for her commitment to her family’s education.

From a very young age, my mom recognized the importance of nurturing her children's intellectual growth. She took it upon herself to teach her daughter , Jaz, to read, write, and perform mathematical tasks by the age of four. This foundational education instilled a lifelong love of learning in Jaz and has had a lasting impact on her siblings as well. However, my mom's contributions extend far beyond academics; she has instilled in her children essential values of compassion, perseverance, and faith, deeply rooted in her love for Jehovah.

Her life experiences have been challenging, yet she has navigated them with an unwavering spirit and grace that inspire those around her. Her ability to transform personal trials into lessons of strength and empowerment is a hallmark of her character. Through her nurturing guidance and profound wisdom, my mom has not only shaped her children into resilient individuals but has also left an indelible mark on our community. Her legacy is one of hope and the enduring belief that love and education can triumph over adversity. My mom is, without a doubt, a remarkable woman whose influence will resonate through generations.

Deloris Jordan, the mother of NBA icon Michael Jordan, has made profound contributions to her community through her unwavering commitment to service and empowerment. As a key figure in the James R. Jordan Foundation, she has tirelessly advocated for educational initiatives and youth development, recognizing that a strong foundation is crucial for future success. During an impactful event she hosted in Chicago, Deloris provided mentorship and inspiration to Jaz Ellison, encouraging her to pursue greater endeavors in community service. Deloris’s belief that “it takes a village to bring change” underscores her emphasis on the importance of community partnerships in supporting young adults. Her dedication to nurturing talent and fostering hope continues to inspire those around her, demonstrating how individual efforts can lead to significant collective impact.

Marian Robinson, the mother of former First Lady Michelle Obama, has profoundly influenced the values and aspirations of future generations. Her commitment to education and community service has laid the groundwork for initiatives that empower youth, including the Healing Tree Community Foundation, founded by Jaz Ellison. During an impromptu interview, Marian shared an invaluable piece of advice with Jaz to pass on to the girls she mentors in the community: “Tell them to be like Michelle Obama because I raised her.” This statement encapsulates her dedication to instilling strong values and ambition in her children. Marian's insights and experiences serve as a testament to the importance of nurturing leadership qualities and resilience, ultimately shaping not just her daughter but the broader community. Jaz is committed to sharing Marian’s wisdom, ensuring that the girls she mentors are inspired to strive for excellence and make meaningful contributions to society.