Meet Jaden Hunter | Student at UC Berkeley, Entrepreneur, Photographer, Community Rebuilder

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

Hi Jaden, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?

I hail from the vibrant Eastside of South Central Los Angeles, a community that often faces unjust stereotypes and negative assumptions. However, I aim to defy those perceptions and contribute something positive to the world. I want to showcase the incredible potential that originates from the Eastside.

My upbringing in this community was challenging, but it made me who I am today with the resilience and determination needed to succeed in any endeavor. The hardships I faced instilled in me an unwavering work ethic and a refusal to give up on my dreams. I owe a great deal to my community for shaping me into the person I am today. Without its lessons, I wouldn’t be prepared to navigate the complexities of the real world. Additionally, my experiences within the community have cultivated an insatiable hunger for success.

Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by low-income neighborhoods, and it compelled me to take action. In the near future, I will establish my own non-profit foundation aimed at revitalizing and supporting underprivileged communities. This foundation will provide free STEM programs to low-income students, empowering them to realize the boundless opportunities available in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Furthermore, we will offer comprehensive financial literacy programs to families, equipping them with the knowledge to build credit, save money, make wise financial decisions, and even purchase homes. My ultimate objective is to break the cycle of generational poverty.

By combining my personal experiences, ambition, and dedication, I aspire to make a lasting impact on low-income communities, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

I am the founder of TLW Clothing, also known as “The Legit Way,” a clothing brand that I established in July of 2020. What initially began as a small idea quickly blossomed into a thriving venture, propelling me to seize the opportunity and wholeheartedly pursue its growth. What sets my brand apart is that it embodies more than just a label; it encapsulates a way of life. “The Legit Way” represents a lifestyle that urges individuals to conduct themselves with integrity, ensuring that every endeavor is approached and executed in the right way, the legitimate way.

One of my primary aspirations is to inspire and empower the youth, letting them know that it is perfectly acceptable to pursue their dreams “The Legit Way.” Whether it involves starting their own businesses, seeking employment, or pursuing education, I want to instill the belief that engaging in legitimate business is perfectly fine. Doing things the right way, the legitimate way, is both commendable and player.

One of my proudest achievements is successfully managing my business for three years while also being a student. This feat has been accomplished through unwavering determination and resilience. Regardless of the ups and downs that come with running a business, I have refused to give up. Along the way, I have learned valuable lessons, such as the fact that people are quick to applaud your successes, but support can dwindle when faced with adversity. Therefore, it is crucial to remain focused on your goals, consistently work towards achieving them, and not be deterred by temporary setbacks.

I want the world to recognize that nothing in life is handed to you on a silver platter; one must be willing to put in the hard work and dedication to attain their desires. My story serves as a testament to this truth, as I have overcome numerous challenges and obstacles on my journey. It has not been easy, but through it all, I have relied on my faith in God, whose unwavering presence has guided me every step of the way.

In essence, TLW Clothing represents a commitment to living life with integrity and pursuing success through legitimate means. Through my brand, I strive to inspire the youth, persevere through hardships, and impart the message that hard work, authenticity, and faith can lead to remarkable accomplishments.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

I would ensure they experience the sublime delight of a Ramona’s burrito, particularly the one located on San Pedro St. Then walk next door to Marty’s Liquor Store to get a cold soda or juice. It holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of my upbringing and is a staple I indulge in whenever I return to LA from school.

Moreover, I would highly recommend C.W. and Chris Fish & Chicken, a remarkable local family owned business renowned for their exceptional fried chicken and fish.The food delights are a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic and unforgettable taste of the area.

To provide a moment of tranquility and reflection, I would encourage them to visit the picturesque beaches of Los Angeles. There, one can bask in the soothing ambiance, allowing the waves to wash away any worries and providing a serene escape from the bustling city life.

Additionally, for the automobile enthusiasts among us, a visit to the renowned Irwindale Speedway on a Thursday night would be an exhilarating experience. Witnessing the thrilling races and the raw power of the cars would undoubtedly ignite a passion for automotive excellence and create lasting memories.

By introducing these unique and memorable experiences, I aim to ensure that their visit to Los Angeles encompasses not only the cultural diversity and vibrancy of the city but also its local gems and hidden treasures that make it truly remarkable.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

I wholeheartedly express my deep gratitude to my unwavering support system and cherished family, who have consistently uplifted me and fueled my pursuit of personal growth and fulfillment. Their ceaseless encouragement has propelled me to strive for greatness and embrace the very best version of myself. I am forever locked in with them and will give them the world for their unwavering belief in my dreams.

I would like to extend a special tribute to my remarkable mother, who, as a single parent, has been an extraordinary guiding force in my life. Her tireless dedication ensured that I remained steadfast and focused, shielding me from any distractions that could veer me off my intended path. Her unwavering support and commitment have been instrumental in shaping the person I am today.

Furthermore, I wish to acknowledge and commend the outstanding efforts of the DMTL Organization, led by Nason Buchanan. Through their unwavering commitment to empowering individuals, they have consistently placed me in extraordinary and uplifting circumstances. Their positive influence has afforded me incredible opportunities and positioned me for success, for which I am profoundly grateful.

In essence, my heartfelt appreciation goes out to every individual within my community, my support network, including my cherished family and my incredible mother. Their unwavering belief in my abilities and their steadfast support have been invaluable in shaping my journey, and I am forever indebted to their unwavering commitment to my success. Thank God for everything without him nothing would be possible.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tlwclothing/. https://www.instagram.com/tlw.jaden/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/tlwjaden

Image Credits
@bsflickz