Jamila Thompson, C'2023, a psychology major and English minor from Queens, New York, is the author of the book, "You Work it Girl: A Tweens Guide to Beauty, Fashion, and Other Cool Stuff." She is also CEO of Rub a Dub Spa Parties for Kids that was established in Laurelton, New York. Both Thompson's book and business focus on uplifting young Black girls, boosting their self-esteem and confidence, and empowering them to be the best version of themselves and to reach for the stars. For the past few summers, starting in 2017, she has dedicated her time to teaching chess and art skills to Black youth at her local library. To improve on racial and gender imbalances within communities and to promote positive transformation among Black youth, Thompson also teaches reading and writing skills to Black students at her local daycare during the school year. She is also an award-winning artist and has sold more than 30 pieces of her work which has often been on display at various local libraries. Creator of face portraits and African-themed pieces, Thompson is also a two-time winner of the annual Roy Wilkins Art Exhibit that takes place in St. Albans, New York and features paintings, photos, sketch work, collages, and metal work from artists of all ages. Her artwork was also featured inside of the United Nations, as well as inside the largest repository of Black artifacts memorabilia and books in the state of New York including the Langston Hughes Library and Roosevelt Memorial Library.
I am social justice…
...because of what Malcolm X said back in 1962 still stands today in 2022, “the most disrespected person in America is the Black woman”, and it is my mission to change that.