J. Haleem's Journey: From Prison to Prosperity
Episode Overview
J. Haleem shares his journey from growing up in Newark, NJ during the crack epidemic to serving time in prison, working minimum wage jobs, and eventually building a successful six-figure business. Despite being a convicted felon, J. Haleem's resilience and determination allowed him to transition from a struggling photographer to a successful consultant, helping minority-owned businesses thrive in government contracting. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to overcome adversity. J. Haleem emphasizes the importance of focus and making strategic moves, showcasing the action and doing rather than just being resilient. He highlights the need to empower and support minority communities in entrepreneurship and government contracting, providing valuable insights and advice.
You gotta use that quote, you gotta put that on social media. I'll make sure I do that.
Imagine growing up in Newark, NJ during the crack epidemic, getting swallowed up by the chaos, and finding yourself behind bars. This is the raw and riveting backdrop of J. Haleem's life. In this episode of 'Resilience In Action with Erin Brown', J. Haleem, a best-selling author and business consultant, lays bare his tumultuous journey from prison to building a six-figure business. He shares how he went from earning $8 an hour to becoming a successful commercial photographer and entrepreneur.
But it wasn't a smooth ride. J. Haleem talks candidly about the hurdles he faced at every step, from the stigma of being a convicted felon to the challenges of black parenthood. His mantra, #I Won’t Starve, became his driving force, propelling him to leave his low-paying job and chase his dreams. Today, J. Haleem helps minority-owned businesses thrive in government contracting, proving that resilience and determination can turn even the darkest past into a bright future.
If you're looking for a story that underscores the power of perseverance, this episode is a must-listen.