Ja’Mel Ashely is an actor, entrepreneur, and public speaker. His life has taken him down an unconventional path of eclectic experiences, fostering a deep understanding of humanity. He has appeared in the films The Love You Want Exists, The Briefcase, The Love Pandemic, and All is Forgiven, and onstage in Much Ado about Nothing at the Bartell Theatre. From his home town of Detroit, Ja’Mel started Intellectual Ratchet (IR), which focuses on empowering and healing others through brave spaces, and engages with diverse communities to transform their experiences into tangible resources. In 2017, the Urban Community Arts Network (UCAN) awarded him the ‘Spotlight Award’ for his community contributions and developments. In 2018, the Madison Black Chamber of Commerce named him the Young Entrepreneur of the Year. In 2019, he was named POZ Magazines POZ 100 advocates in the HIV field. In 2020 THRIVE SS rewarded him for his innovative approach in restoring Project Innovate. In 2021 he received recognition from the Men’s Engagement Network for International Transgender Day of Visibility. His ‘personal mission statement’: to be an example of discipline, freedom, growth, and healing. Be your complete self, and live life fully. Stay tuned for the official launch of ArtistiCreativity Dreams Come True Fund to inspire creatives to change the world! His 2021 motto is “Stay the course!”