Meet Jazz Broughton | Singer, Writer, and Community Activist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jazz Broughton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jazz, how does your business help the community?
Since a child, I’ve had a profound sense of justice. Whether splitting up a fight between a bully or asking questions in class that challenged an idea, I have never been afraid to speak up for what I believe in. Today, I allow my music and my work to speak for me. Through singing and song-writing, I create music that I hope leaves those who listen feeling inspired and empowered. While I haven’t released my upcoming music yet, I am excited for what is to come. Themes of my music are love, resilience, compassion, and connecting with nature. So much of my writing is speaking to my younger and higher self, both being reminded of their power and divinity. Even when we feel not good enough or lost on what to do next, I hope my music can be a safe haven.

I spend my day job in the nonprofit and education sector, supporting youth in accessing and attending higher education. Through scholarships, engaging curriculum, family engagement, and more, we inspire youth across Oakland to turn their dreams into a reality.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
At seventeen, I left for Southern California having never been there before. Four years later, I graduated from UCLA with two degrees in International Development and Gender Studies and an award in Community Engagement on behalf of the Gender Studies Department. My position as Mentorship Coordinator for the Afrikan Student Union’s Academic Support Program at UCLA was where my training in higher education and counseling began.

I want people to know that anything is possible when you set your mind to it. Our past may define the present, but we write the definition. To be a Program Manager for arguably one of the best local nonprofits in the Bay Area let alone California at twenty-five years old has not been easy. I am constantly participating in fellowships, trainings, workshops, certifications, and more in order to better my leadership skills and continue to grow. When one is willing and has a love for learning- anything is possible!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Food: Molinari’s Deli
Diamond Slice
Aburaya Chicken
Taco Sinaloa
Yojimbo
World Famous Hot Boys

Locations:
China Beach
Muir Woods/Mount Tam
Golden Gate Park
Mount Diablo
American River
Lake Merritt

Definitely would check out any live bands or concerts happening that week, as well.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
This is difficult, because there are so many! From books like the Autobiography of Assata Shakur and Brene Browns’ Gifts of Imperfection to movies like 13th, the arts have always been a place of inspiration and education. My high school college counselor is now my director and supervisor in the nonprofit that I work for. I learn from her every single day and wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for her. The Bruin Guardian Scholars Program at UCLA was one of my greatest support systems during college and it was because of them that I was able to get through my last year of school after my father passed away. Last, but not least are my grandparents. They have sacrificed everything for me to be here and raised me like their own child.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jazzmelanium/?hl=en

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/jazz-broughton

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jazzmelanium