Meet Marcus Jenkins | Keynote Speaker, Life Coach, & Professional Development Consultant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Marcus Jenkins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marcus, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
I would like my legacy to be one of inspiration and empowerment. I want people to remember me as someone who encouraged and motivated others to reach their full potential and achieve their goals.

I hope to leave a lasting impression as a leader who helped others succeed. In my eyes, every great leader should be judged by the number of great leaders they help to shape & mold.

What should our readers know about your business?
At ROOTS Mentoring, our mission is to is to redefine the trajectory of at-promise youth through raising the consciousness levels of the youth we serve through the teaching of our pillars; accountability, effective communication skills, & code switching We strive to create a supportive and nurturing environment where young minds can grow, develop essential life skills, and overcome obstacles. Our focus is not only on academic success but also on personal growth, character development, and instilling a sense of self-belief in the youth we serve.

What sets ROOTS Mentoring apart from others is our holistic approach to mentoring. We understand that each individual has unique needs and challenges, and we tailor our mentoring programs accordingly. By addressing academic, emotional, and social well-being, we create a comprehensive support system for our mentees, setting them up for long-term success.

Jenkins Empowerment Consulting, on the other hand, focuses on empowering individuals and organizations through coaching, training, and motivational speaking. We provide strategies and guidance to help them overcome obstacles, unlock their potential, and achieve their goals. Our approach is rooted in creating positive change and inspiring others to embrace their full potential.

Getting to where I am today has not been an easy journey. Like any business, I faced numerous challenges along the way. However, I believe that challenges are opportunities for growth. I overcame them by maintaining a relentless determination to push forward, seeking guidance from mentors, and being resourceful in finding solutions.

The most important lesson I have learned is the power of resilience. Entrepreneurship is a rollercoaster ride, and setbacks are inevitable. However, it is our ability to bounce back, learn from failures, and adapt that ultimately leads to success. I have also learned the value of building strong relationships and surrounding myself with a supportive network, both personally and professionally.

What I want the world to know about ROOTS Mentoring and Jenkins Empowerment Consulting is that we are genuinely committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others. We believe in the power of mentorship, education, and personal development to transform communities and create a brighter future. Our dedication, passion, and unwavering belief in the potential of every individual drive our work.

Overall, I am incredibly proud of the growth and impact we have achieved so far. However, I am most excited about the opportunities ahead. Our goal is to expand our reach, collaborate with like-minded organizations, and continue making a difference in the lives of individuals across various communities.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting, I’d take them to my hometown of Asheville. I would ensure they have an unforgettable week filled with exciting experiences. Here’s an itinerary that incorporates some of the most fun, interesting, and exciting things to check out:

Day 1:
– Morning: Start the trip by exploring the vibrant downtown area. Grab a delicious breakfast at a local cafe and take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, soaking in the charming atmosphere.
– Afternoon: Visit the renowned art galleries and museums in the city, immersing ourselves in the rich cultural heritage.
– Evening: Enjoy a delightful dinner at Kings Kitchen. We’d be sure to get some fresh wontons!

Day 2:
– Morning: Head out to explore the picturesque outdoors. Take a hike through the scenic trails of the Blueridge Parkway, breathing in the fresh air and admiring the breathtaking views.
– Afternoon: Continue the outdoor adventure with some thrilling activities like zip-lining or kayaking in a nearby river. Embrace the adrenaline rush and create lasting memories.
– Evening: Relax and unwind with a picnic at the French Broad River Park, savoring delicious local treats while enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Day 3:
– Morning: Embark on a day trip to a nearby vineyard or winery. Indulge in wine tastings, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy the serene surroundings.
– Afternoon: Explore the local shops and boutiques, seeking out unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures.
– Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife scene by visiting lively bars or attending a local music performance or comedy show.

Day 4:
– Morning: Immerse ourselves in the local history and architecture by touring historic landmarks and heritage sites. Learn about the city’s past and its contributions to the region.
– Afternoon: Go back to the Shiloh Center where I spent a lot of my upbringing to play basketball with the local youth.
– Evening: Enjoy a Soulfood feast at Daddy D’s!

Day 5:
– Morning: Participate in a community service project, giving back to the local community and engaging in meaningful work.
– Afternoon: Visit my neighborhood and pay a few neighbors who watched me grow up to reflect and check up on them briefly.
– Evening: Attend a live performance, such as a theater show or live music concert, immersing ourselves in the vibrant arts scene.

Day 6:
– Morning: Get a great work out!
– Afternoon: Decompress at the spa, indulging in rejuvenating massages.
– Evening: Mediate at a scenic view of the city.

Day 7:
– Morning: Go back to my high school football field and throw the football like old time.
– Afternoon: Visit the grave site of my Grandparents and let them know how appreciative I am for their guidance and knowledge.
– Evening: End the trip by hosting a small gathering with close friends at a rooftop bar, toasting to the wonderful memories created during the week.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’m a mentor to many, but I wouldn’t be in this position to add value to others if I didn’t come across a few mentors who have been extremely instrumental in my journey of life.

Firstly, I must credit Jeff May, my personal mentor and the catalyst behind the creation of ROOTS Mentoring, for his unwavering belief in my abilities. It was under his guidance and mentorship that I interned and learned invaluable lessons, laying the foundation for the establishment of ROOTS Mentoring. Jeff’s support, transparency, and encouragement has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth, and I am forever grateful for his influence on my journey.

I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the profound impact my grandfather, Arthur Edington, had on my life. As the principal in my hometown of Asheville, NC, his commitment to education and empowering young individuals set the stage for my own educational foundation. Arthur’s dedication to fostering growth and creating opportunities continues to inspire me, and I carry his teachings with me as I strive to make a difference in the lives of others.

Lastly, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to my parents, whose unwavering support and relentless push for me to be different and swing for the fences have been instrumental in my accomplishments. Their belief in my potential, coupled with their constant encouragement and guidance, have allowed me to overcome challenges and reach new heights. I am eternally grateful for their presence in my life and the values they have instilled within me.

Website: https://www.rootsmentoring.net/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mastermind_marcus/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smarcusjenkins/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RootsMentoring1/