Ja'Quan Lavender

CEO & President

The Ja’Quan Lavender Foundation: The Journey To Gold, founded in 2020, is committed to empowering young men nationwide, transforming them into prudent individuals of character, integrity, resilience, and compassion. While our mission extends across the country, we hold a special focus on serving the needs of the community in Steubenville. Our organization is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for young men to explore their identities, embrace their unique qualities, and develop a deep sense of self-awareness.

We understand that the path to self-discovery is a personal and transformative process, and we are committed to being their steadfast allies every step of the way. We offer comprehensive training programs that focus on leadership development. Our focus is to foster personal growth, self-esteem, and character development. We encourage young men to embrace vulnerability, express their emotions, critical thinking and develop a strong sense of self-worth. Through workshops, discussions, and experiential learning, we equip young men with these skills, enabling them to overcome obstacles, make informed decisions, and become agents of positive change in their own lives and the community at large.

The vision of the Prudent Man Leadership Academy is to develop leaders who possess the qualities of prudence, wisdom, and ethical decision-making.

We strive to create an environment that fosters personal growth, encourages critical thinking, and nurtures a strong sense of integrity and responsibility. To cultivate principled leaders who embody wisdom, integrity, and responsibility, empowering them to positively influence and transform individuals, organizations, and communities.

Ja'Quan Lavender is a driven and accomplished individual who has made significant contributions to the world of sports and youth development. Born and raised in Steubenville, Ohio, Ja'Quan's journey began at Steubenville High School, where he excelled both academically and athletically.

In 2014, Ja'Quan graduated from Steubenville High School, laying the foundation for his future endeavors. He went on to pursue his passion for sports and marketing by earning a Bachelor's degree in Sports Marketing and Management from Tiffin University in 2020. During his time at Tiffin University, Ja'Quan honed his skills and knowledge in the field, preparing himself for a successful career.

Following his graduation, Ja'Quan set his sights on the Olympic Games, embarking on a quest to make the 2020 Olympic Team for the summer Olympics. Although he narrowly missed making the team, Ja'Quan's determination and resilience propelled him forward. His unwavering commitment to athletic excellence led him to the Team USA Rookie Camp for a winter sport called Skeleton. Ja'Quan embraced this new challenge with enthusiasm, showcasing his adaptability and fearlessness in pursuing his dreams.

In 2021, Ja'Quan made the decision to retire from competitive sports, recognizing the importance of transitioning to the next phase of his life. He shifted his focus towards making a lasting impact on the lives of young men across the nation. Ja'Quan established the Ja'Quan Lavender Foundation: The Journey to Gold, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and inspiring youth. Through his foundation, he provides mentorship, guidance, and resources to hundreds of young men, helping them develop into responsible, compassionate, and successful individuals.

Additionally, Ja'Quan founded The Prudent Man Leadership Academy, a leadership program designed to instill essential skills and values in young men. Through this academy, Ja'Quan offers transformative experiences and education, empowering the next generation of leaders to make wise and informed decisions. Ja'Quan Lavender's remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, leaders, and individuals striving to make a positive impact in their communities. Through his dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to personal growth and youth development, Ja'Quan continues to leave a lasting legacy.