Kwanza Jones: A Catalyst for Positive Change

Throughout 2023, women have spearheaded a monumental shift in the business landscape, championing impact and change. Kwanza Jones an acclaimed artist and high impact philanthropist, has become an impressive force for positive change. Teaming up with José E. Feliciano, Jones they have orchestrated a powerful blend of art, philanthropy, and empowerment, driving a transformative wave of opportunities within communities of color. Together, their efforts have left an enduring imprint on the social impact landscape.

She Is Many Things, But Basic Isn’t One Of Them!

Kwanza Jones is making her mark boosting humans and humanity through culture, capital and community. Her monumental impact was recently released as a visual named, “2023 Year In Review: We Buildin‘.” This captivating piece not only serves as a testament to her direct impact on underserved communities but also provides an immersive glimpse into the groundbreaking work and opportunities she has spearheaded throughout the year.

A Catalyst Of Influence

As we bring 2023 to a close, it signals not an end but a potential beginning for profound change. In the mist of our pursuit of success, it’s easy to overlook the importance of becoming catalysts for leadership and support. This year has taught me a valuable lesson: creating significant impact and establishing empires requires a community of people. As millennials it’s important to know progress surges when we embrace collaboration over only moving from solitary efforts. Sometimes we tend to fit ourselves into a box, trying to figure things out alone. When we are meant to standout and take up space as a team and paying the blessing forward.

No One Succeeds Alone, Sometimes You Need A Boost

-Kwanza

This quote holds incredible empowerment to me, encouraging openness to finding a tribe uniquely meant for you. Inspired by this, Jones established the Kwanza Jones Boost Friends™ Community. A group of next-level achievers ready to crush their goals and run the world. Fulfilling her mission by providing a space that fosters meaningful connections, accountability, and tools that inspire you to take action. 

Notable Highlights: Achievements & Impact

SoLa Social Impact Award

In a star-studded affair, Kwanza was presented with the prestigious 2023 SoLa Social Impact Award by SoLa Impact, in partnership with its affiliated 501c3 non-profit, the SoLa I CAN Foundation. The award was given during the “2nd Annual Sneaker Ball Gala and Fundraiser” at SoLa Beehive in Inglewood, California

A generous gift of $50,000 from Jones and Feliciano, coupled with a $10,000 matching grant, propelled the SoLa I CAN Foundation to raise an additional $43,000. Proceeds from the Gala were used to support the SoLa Foundation’s marquee projects, the SoLa Technology and Entrepreneurship Center and the SoLa College Scholarships program along with other education and community engagement programs. A-list celebrities, including Tiffany Haddish, added glamor to the occasion.

Beyond financial contributions, Jones invited two scholars from the SoLa I CAN Foundation to experience the magic of a professional video shoot during the production of her year in review video. This hands-on opportunity created a bridge between academic aspirations and real-world experiences, leaving a lasting impact on the scholars pursuing careers in production.

SUPERCHARGED Initiative

Jones is the co-founder and CEO of the Kwanza Jones & José E. Feliciano SUPERCHARGED Initiative, the organization behind the donations. It is a philanthropic grantmaking and impact investment organization that invests in both nonprofits and for-profits while focusing on the areas of education, entrepreneurship, equity, and empowerment. Through the initiative, Jones invests intentionally, but not exclusively, in women and people of color.

The Impact Of Giving

Kwanza and Feliciano received the 2023 Impact Award from The Independent School Alliance for their extraordinary efforts in promoting equity and education. Their commitment to fostering inclusivity echoed across the academic landscape.

In addition, Jones and Feliciano’s historic $20 million donation to Princeton in 2019 also materialized into a groundbreaking achievement. This year, they celebrated the dedication of two Princeton dormitories bearing their names. Marking the first time a Black and Latino donor has been immortalized on dormitories in the university’s 275-year history.

As Kwanza Jones continues to shape a narrative of empowerment and inclusion, her impact in 2023 sets the stage for a future defined by positive change and commitment to social progress. She has been the true example of “ Don’t talk about it, be about it”, and as a woman of color myself it’s time to raise the bar to new heights.

To keep up with Kwanza and all the amazing things she does, visit kwanzajones.com . Connect with her on Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | Kwanza Jones Boost Friends Community.