This is the first in a series of profiles highlighting the inspiring individuals who live, work, or advocate for East Cleveland.
NAME: Najae Jackson
OCCUPATION: Teacher
AGE: 24
RESIDENT SINCE: 1999
Who is Najae? Najae is a dedicated East Cleveland resident and advocate, deeply committed to preserving the community’s rich history while embracing its future.
East Cleveland Connection: I have lived in East Cleveland most of my life outside of my time at college in Baltimore. I chose to stay and even purchase my first home in East Cleveland because this is where I truly feel at home. I walk my dog about a mile a day from my parents’ home to Lee Road, past Shaw High School, and back home. During our daily walk, it is hard not to run into a family member, friend, or someone I know from the neighborhood. I find a real sense of both family and community.
Favorite Things: I enjoy that East Cleveland is small, and almost everyone somehow knows one another. Or if you don’t know someone, I’m sure you know someone else who does. Since returning home from college two years ago, I have been active in the community, attending council meetings, community meetings, and events like the Shaw Reunion. I have received immense support and made numerous connections.
Circle East Rising: I am excited about the changes happening within our community. The Circle East District development has ignited a new flame inside me to keep putting time and energy into my community. It also let me know to continue to build within my own means because Circle East is just the start and not the entirety or the end of what needs to change in East Cleveland.
About Me: My long-term aspirations involve establishing a construction and development firm to foster community growth and attract essential businesses, leveraging my background in business administration. To deepen my expertise in this field, I am pursuing a Master of Urban Development and Planning at Cleveland State University.
Interests: In my free time, I enjoy exploring new properties, brainstorming entrepreneurial ventures, and indulging in my passion for cooking. I particularly love preparing pasta dishes and sweets. Perhaps one day, I will open an eatery right here in East Cleveland.
Learn more about Najae, who was recently featured in East Clevelander magazine HERE.
