Groundbreakers: The Spark That Lit the Fire
a series amplifying the bold, brave voices of rising leaders.
Welcome to Groundbreakers, a series amplifying the bold, brave voices of rising leaders among us. These are changemakers creating real impact in their communities day in and day out.
Each piece in this series is authored by a young person pushing boundaries, shifting narratives, and proving what’s possible through their own words, experiences, and actions.
We’re kicking off this series with a powerful piece from Jakarri, a Rising Generations Summit delegate and youth leader who’s transforming adversity into purpose. In “The Spark That Lit the Fire,” he shares a firsthand look at the discrimination he’s faced in the education system and how that injustice lit a fire in him to stand up, speak out, and help other young people find their voice and power in the fight for change.
In his own words….
The Spark That Lit the Fire
From an early age, I was taught a simple truth: if you see something wrong, speak up. That belief has shaped my entire journey. While it sometimes puts me at odds with people who prefer a more laid-back approach, I’ve never backed down from raising my voice especially when it comes to injustice.
One issue that drives me deeply is discrimination, particularly in education. As someone who has experienced it firsthand, I know how damaging it can be. School is supposed to be a place where students grow, thrive, and prepare for their future, not a place where they’re judged by the color of their skin or the challenges they face.
In fifth grade, I was placed in special education under the claim it would support my learning. At first, I believed it. But as time went on, I realized I was outpacing my classmates. One day, a teacher asked me not to answer questions so that others could participate. Another day, a different teacher told me, “These questions aren’t for people like you.” I was shocked. What did she mean by, “people like me”?
That moment lit a fire in me. I began researching and learned that Black students—especially Black boys—are disproportionately placed in special education and face higher rates of suspension and expulsion for minor infractions. These disparities fuel the school-to-prison pipeline and widen the opportunity gap. I knew I had to speak out and do something about it.
Attending the CRG Rising Generations Summit was a powerful reminder that I’m not alone in this work. Being surrounded by young people from different backgrounds including future doctors, teachers, politicians, activists, was incredibly inspiring. What united us was a shared desire to make a difference. Conversations with students from across the country opened my eyes to how many schools still lack basic resources like preschool, lunch programs, or civic education. The Summit gave me clarity and sharpened my focus: I want to build something that empowers youth to fight back against injustice through policy and civic action.
That’s why I’m currently working on a project that helps students become more civically engaged. My goal is to teach young people how to write policy, understand laws, and effectively lobby lawmakers. It’s about giving them the tools they need to be heard and to lead. I’ve been reaching out to mentors, building curriculum, and forming partnerships with local organizations to make sure this program is both accessible and impactful.
Of course, this journey hasn’t been without challenges. One of the biggest questions I’ve faced is how to make this initiative stand out from others. What makes it different? How do I ensure students actually get face time with lawmakers and not just theoretical lessons? These are complex questions, but they’ve forced me to grow as a leader and learn how to problem-solve, adapt, and lead with both vision and strategy.
I’ve also learned the value of community. My biggest supporters have been my family and Congresswoman Robin Kelly, my mentor, who consistently encourages my work and reminds me that youth-led change is essential. I’ve also leaned on peers and fellow student leaders who share similar experiences and passions. Their support fuels me on the tough days and keeps me grounded.
If there’s one thing I want adults, institutions, and fellow young people to understand, it’s this: youth are the present. We’re living with these issues every day, and we deserve to have a say in the solutions. We need seats at the table where decisions are made. And when we’re not offered one, we have to build our own tables.
To any young person reading this: don’t wait for permission. Don’t wait for someone to hand you an opportunity. Create it. Speak out. Organize. Build something real.
Change is something we make happen.
What an awesome article. Thank you for sharing. I pray your mission is fought with truth and compassion. Continue to be great.